Hyderabad: State-owned iron ore miner NMDC Limited is scouting for opportunities in Argentina for mining of copper and other critical minerals, which are required for clean energy technologies and India’s mineral security, as part of its global diversification strategy.A delegation led by its finance director Anurag Kapil held meetings with Argentinian govt officials, mining ministries and state-owned agencies in mineral-rich provinces of Mendoza, Jujuy, Catamarca, Salta, La Rioja and Río Negro.The discussions were aimed at assessing and exploring geological potential, regulatory frameworks, infrastructure, technical cooperation and possible future partnerships, NMDC said.In Mendoza, officials briefed the company on the province’s mining development plans and Malargüe Western mining district, which groups more than 100 metallic exploration projects under a unified environmental review process. The province is looking to accelerate assessments and build a stronger copper project pipeline.In Jujuy, governor Carlos Sadir, provincial officials and state miner JEMSE discussed copper, gold, rare earths and lithium opportunities, along with the province’s bi-oceanic corridor access and supplier base. JEMSE proposed a technical information exchange agreement.Catamarca Governor Raúl Jalil and CAMYEN SE executives presented opportunities for responsible mineral development, while Salta’s REMSa SA, La Rioja mining officials and Río Negro’s mining secretary also discussed cooperation and co-investment possibilities.While no investment commitments were announced, NMDC, which produces more than 53 million tonnes of iron ore annually, said the visit provided first-hand exposure to Argentina’s mining ecosystem.Kapil said the engagement reflected NMDC’s commitment to critical minerals and future cooperation aligned with India’s mineral security objectives, amid rising global demand for energy transition materials.
