To boost steel production and secure critical raw materials, Indian PSUs—SAIL, NMDC, and MECON—will open offices in Dubai by June-end, with MOIL set to follow.

The move aims to explore reserves of key minerals like coking coal, manganese, and limestone abroad, despite sufficient domestic iron ore. Dubai was chosen due to its proximity to African and Gulf markets; MOIL's CMD will visit Gabon for manganese opportunities. India also eyes resources in Brazil, Argentina, and limestone in Oman. Currently producing 151 million tonnes of steel, India plans to reach 300 million tonnes by 2030. MOIL achieved its highest quarterly production—5 lakh tonnes—and aims for 35–40 million tonnes output by 2030. Although China’s dumping impacts imports, safeguard duties are in place. EU’s tighter carbon norms pose a challenge, but India is targeting other global markets. Union Steel Secretary Sandeep Poundrik emphasized MOIL’s increasing contribution, expected to surpass 50% of the steel sector’s raw material needs.