The Indian government is planning to introduce a new metal and mineral trading exchange, similar to global platforms like the London Metal Exchange (LME) and the Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE). This move is part of a broader strategy to boost mineral production, improve price transparency, and attract more investment into the mining sector.
According to the Hindu Businessline news reports, the exchange will help in better price discovery of minerals and metals. A proposal to amend the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR Act) has already been moved and is expected to be tabled during the ongoing Parliament session.
Currently, India’s mineral pricing system is based on self-declared prices from mining companies, assessments by the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), and some global benchmarks. However, this method lacks consistency and transparency. In global markets, metal exchanges play a key role in setting reference prices through open, competitive trading.
The proposed Indian exchange would offer a structured platform for trading in minerals, concentrates, and processed metals. This would also make it easier for miners to sell or use their production as per their business needs, just like in other mineral-rich countries.
To make this possible, the government plans to amend the MMDR Act. The changes will include provisions that allow the creation and operation of mineral trading exchanges within a legal framework.
Another important amendment is the removal of the current restriction on captive mines. At present, captive mines can sell only up to 50% of their total production in the open market. The government now plans to lift this cap entirely, allowing mine owners to sell more freely after meeting their own needs.
This change is expected to encourage optimal extraction of resources and attract private investments into the mining sector.
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The proposed metal trading exchange is a major step toward making India self-reliant in minerals and metals. By ensuring transparent pricing and removing outdated restrictions, the government aims to make the mining sector more competitive and investment-friendly. If implemented well, this could be a game-changer for India’s natural resources economy.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities or companies mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation or investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.
Published on: Aug 12, 2025, 11:49 AM IST
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