New Delhi, July 9 -- India is in discussions with Australia for potential collaborations on rare earth minerals and copper blocks, as global concerns over China's tightening control on rare earth exports continue to grow. Economic Times reported.

"There are ongoing talks on rare earths, and blocks are available. This presents a chance for India to acquire an early-stage block and collaborate with select companies," said Malini Dutt, Trade and Investment Commissioner for the New South Wales Government, during the India Energy Storage Week (IESW) 2025 hosted by the India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA), according to the report.

Dutt added that Indian interest extends beyond rare earths.

Highlighting the availability of smelting infrastruc...