New Delhi, Oct 29
India's demand for copper surged by 9.3 per cent to 1,878 kilo tonnes (KT) in FY25 due to the strong growth in large-scale infrastructure projects, building construction, clean energy transition and durable consumer goods which use the metal as an essential input, according to a release by the International Copper Association India (ICA India) on Wednesday.
The automotive sector, which includes electric vehicles (EVs), recorded a five per cent overall increase, particularly two- and three-wheelers registering a double-digit 16 per cent rise, underscoring copper's vital role in clean mobility. The industrial motors segment grew by 12 per cent.
To ensure future growth and resilience, India must proactively plan for building functional copper reserves and strengthening domestic supply chains. India must accelerate its copper adoption to build its in-use functional reserves or above-ground mines until the country reaches developed economy status, he said.