India's first mineral exchange may be operationalised by next fiscal: Official
- IBEF
- September 23, 2026
India’s first coal and minerals exchanges are expected to be finalised within the next eight to nine months as the Government advances reforms aimed at strengthening domestic coal supply, improving price uniformity and reducing dependence on imports. The proposed exchanges are part of a broader framework covering coal and major minerals, with rules for the proposed minerals exchange already finalised and the exchanges moving towards operationalisation. The framework is expected to improve transparency and uniformity in the pricing of coal and major minerals across states, where differences in taxation and other state-level charges can result in variations in mineral prices. By establishing a more balanced and transparent pricing mechanism, the proposed exchanges are expected to support domestic production and provide industries with improved access to locally produced coal and major minerals.
A key objective of the reforms is to reduce India’s reliance on imported coal by increasing domestic production and ensuring that domestic demand is increasingly met through local supplies. The proposed minerals exchange will cover major minerals such as coal, limestone, bauxite and copper and is expected to influence around 11–12 mineral-producing states, while minor minerals will remain outside its scope. Alongside the proposed exchanges, India is strengthening efforts to secure critical mineral resources internationally, with agreements involving around 20 countries for access to resources including rare earth elements, lithium and nickel. Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. has secured exclusive rights for five mineral blocks in Argentina, while further overseas mineral exploration opportunities are being examined. The Government has stated that the proposed framework is not expected to result in revenue losses for states and has been designed to accommodate potential state-level taxes in the future. The exchanges are expected to support a more uniform market for coal and major minerals, encourage domestic production and strengthen India’s mineral security.
Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.
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