New Delhi, Nov. 12 -- India has prohibited the export of lithium-ion battery black mass in a move aimed at retaining valuable critical minerals within the country, strengthening domestic recycling capabilities and reducing dependence on imports, particularly from China.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce, amended the export policy for lithium-ion battery black mass from 'Free' to 'Prohibited' with immediate effect through Notification No. 49/2026-27, dated 10 November 2026.

The government said the decision would ensure that battery waste generated in India is recycled and refined domestically rather than exported.

The move comes as India seeks to secure supplies of critical minerals such as ...