(Feb 21): Brazil and India sealed a framework pact on critical minerals with the two countries agreeing to work closely on processing in a move aimed at securing rare earth supplies at a time of global disruption. The deal comes soon after India joined the US-led Pax Silica initiative to build resilient supply chains in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Beijing’s grip on the supply of critical minerals required for high-end manufacturing and defence is a growing concern for countries around the world, especially developing economies such as India. India and Brazil want to move into processing of critical minerals rather than remain suppliers of raw materials. “Increasing investments and cooperation in matters of renewable energy and critical minerals is at the core of a pioneering agreement that we have signed today,” Lula said.

Source: The Edge Markets February 21, 2026 10:44 UTC