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Canada Seeks Critical Mineral Status for Metallurgical Coal After India Supply Deals

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Asia 06 Mar 2026 12:59 PM IST Steel Orbis

 Canada’s coal industry is urging the federal government to classify metallurgical coal as a critical mineral after fresh export agreements with Indian steelmakers underscored its role in global steel supply chains. The move is being pitched as a way to strengthen supply security, attract investment and support Canada’s position in steelmaking raw materials.

The push follows new memorandums of understanding involving Elk Valley Resources, a Canadian subsidiary of Glencore, and Indian steel companies including A-One Steels India, Jindal SAW, Shyam Sel & Power, and Jayaswal Neco Industries. Together, the deals cover about 1.2 million metric tons of metallurgical coal and are valued at roughly C$285 million.

Supporters say metallurgical coal remains essential for producing steel used in infrastructure, transport, energy equipment and industrial manufacturing. They argue that granting it critical mineral status could speed up permitting, encourage mining investment and help Canada remain a dependable supplier as India expands steel capacity and looks for stable long-term coking coal sources.