Coal India Board Clears Chile Subsidiary for Lithium and Copper, Approves Investments Exceeding ₹6,300 Crore

Coal India Limited’s board has approved the creation of a wholly owned subsidiary in Chile to pursue opportunities in lithium and copper, marking a significant expansion of the state-run miner’s global footprint in critical minerals. Alongside the strategic move, the board has cleared cumulative investments exceeding ₹6,300 crore to support overseas mineral asset acquisition and development.

The Chile arm is intended to serve as a platform for scouting, acquiring, and developing lithium and copper assets in one of the world’s most resource-rich regions. Chile is a leading global producer of both minerals, which are central to electric vehicle manufacturing, renewable energy systems, and next-generation mobility solutions.

The approved investments will be routed through Coal India’s existing international vehicle and new overseas subsidiaries, enabling participation across the value chain, including exploration, mining, and processing. The move aligns with India’s broader push to secure long-term supplies of critical minerals to reduce import dependence and strengthen domestic manufacturing.

Coal India’s diversification into non-coal minerals reflects a strategic pivot as the company positions itself for the energy transition while leveraging its balance sheet strength and project execution capabilities. The company has been actively evaluating partnerships and assets in lithium-rich geographies to support India’s EV ambitions and clean energy targets.

The decision is also in line with government policy encouraging public sector enterprises to invest abroad in strategic minerals, ensuring supply security amid volatile global markets and intensifying competition for resources.