India Eyes Domestic Battery Waste Recycling to Secure Critical Minerals

India is examining the possibility of restricting exports of battery waste, commonly known as black mass, according to sources familiar with the matter. The initiative seeks to redirect spent batteries from international recyclers to domestic facilities, creating a domestic supply of critical minerals essential for battery manufacturing.

The strategy would enable Indian recyclers to extract and process lithium, cobalt and nickel from used batteries, materials that are currently often exported for processing abroad. By retaining this resource stream domestically, policymakers aim to reduce India's dependence on imported raw materials and bolster the country's emerging battery manufacturing ecosystem.

The move aligns with India's broader efforts to establish itself as a significant player in electric vehicle production and battery manufacturing. As the country accelerates its transition to electric mobility, securing reliable domestic sources of battery materials has become increasingly important for manufacturers seeking to develop cost-competitive and resilient supply chains.

Domestic recyclers stand to benefit directly from such restrictions, gaining guaranteed access to battery waste feedstock that would otherwise flow to international processors. The policy could help establish India's recycling sector as a critical component of its battery industry infrastructure, potentially creating new manufacturing and employment opportunities within the country.