India is seeking access to Myanmar’s rare earth resources, particularly those in Kachin State, which has emerged as a significant source of rare earth elements (REE). In 2024, Myanmar produced an estimated 31,000 metric tons of rare earths, making it the third-largest producer globally, behind China and the United States. This production marked a sharp increase from 12,000 metric tons in 2022.

Kachin State, located in northern Myanmar, is home to the majority of these deposits. Mining activities in the region have expanded rapidly, with the number of active mining sites growing from approximately 130 in 2020 to over 370 by the end of 2024. However, the area remains affected by ongoing conflict, which complicates mining and logistics.

India, heavily reliant on imports for its rare earth needs, imported over 53,000 metric tons of rare earth magnets in the fiscal year 2024-2025, mostly from China and Chinese-controlled markets. India’s domestic rare earth production remains limited, with output under 3,000 metric tons due to insufficient infrastructure and investment.

In light of this, India has pursued a dual-track engagement strategy. The Indian government has sought to engage Myanmar’s military junta, which has some control over the mineral economy, as well as the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), which holds control over much of the rare earth mining areas in Kachin State.

India’s broader regional connectivity efforts, including the India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, also intersect with its interest in Myanmar’s rare earths. However, the logistical challenges of accessing Kachin’s mining areas are significant, with limited infrastructure and transport routes that pass through conflict zones.

Myanmar’s rare earths are primarily processed in China. India is working to improve its domestic refining capacity, having facilitated the transfer of rare earth samples from Myanmar for verification in mid-2025. However, India remains reliant on external processing for its rare earths.