India’s decarbonisation goals uncover new opportunities for Australian METS

India has a burgeoning mining sector with significant, albeit largely underexplored, mining resources. Australian mining equipment, technology and services (METS) companies are positioned to make a strong impact in the industry. The mining and minerals industry in India is motivated by 3 primary drivers:

• Energy security
• Industrial input security
• A preference for domestic supply chains.

Policies have begun to be introduced to encourage decarbonisation across the economy. The significant emission and waste capacity of mining operations is a major target of reductions as India moves towards its net zero goals.

The increased focus on productivity, safety and sustainability has revealed numerous opportunities for Australian METS companies. This includes the Indian mining sector’s demand for increased digitisation, efficient mining methods and techniques, and the easing of transport and logistical bottlenecks. The industry also faces the typical issues of:

• mineral grade decline
• a rethinking of reserves
• a move towards additional underground mining
• environmental and occupational health and safety issues.

The increased activity in exploration and emphasis on deploying productive technologies for greater efficacy also provides avenues for Australian METS.

The introduction of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement in December 2022 has improved market access for Australians. Further tariff reductions took effect on the 1 January 2025.

Through Austrade’s badge of government, and established in-market relationships, Austrade can encourage local engagements to reach positive outcomes.

Recent Australian METS success in India

Several Australian METS companies have made a mark in India, proving that success in the Indian market is possible with the right strategy.

PROK diversifies to India

PROK expanded into the Indian market through the incorporation of an in-market subsidiary in 2023. This expansion aligns with the company’s diversification strategy to leverage India’s growing demand for reliable conveyor systems. This demand is driven by rapid industrialisation and the increasing need for efficient material handling solutions, particularly in the mining sector. By establishing a local presence, PROK can provide its market-leading conveyor components directly to Indian customers, enhancing its service capabilities and market reach within the region.

In addition to this strategic move, PROK has significantly expanded its product offerings in India. It is now supplying high-quality conveyor components such as high-tension pulleys, lightweight and heavy-duty idler frames, premium-quality conveyor rollers and other belt monitoring solutions.

PROK has also introduced its latest innovation to India — the heavy-duty Dual Layer HDPE roller. The roller features patented wear layer technology designed for enhanced predictive maintenance and an innovative seal design for use in the wettest environments.

This expansion, along with the introduction of these cutting-edge products, strengthens PROK's commitment to providing reliable and high-performance solutions to meet the evolving needs of the industry.

PROK was given confidence to further invest in its India strategy through attendance at IMME 2022 and 2023 and Austrade-facilitated introductions to Indian state governments to explore potential manufacturing sites. PROK's entry into India comes at a time when the Indian conveyor belt market is projected to grow significantly, with a compound annual growth rate of 4.9% from 2024 to 2032. This positions PROK among the key players in the industry, further intensifying competition and innovation within the sector.

NAUTITECH® Mining Systems meets demand for safety solutions

Acknowledging Austrade's support, NAUTITECH® Mining Systems has expanded its operations into India by introducing its Methane Master system, which is widely used in Australian mines for methane monitoring and shutdown. This is part of its move towards addressing growing demand for advanced mining safety solutions in India, particularly as regulatory changes increase the recognition of international safety certifications. By entering the Indian market, NAUTITECH® aims to support safer underground mining operations and enhance its presence in this rapidly developing sector.

NAUTITECH® has also participated in Indian mining expos, such as IMME, to showcase its leading technologies, such as the Spitfire® BPLM. Austrade has provided NAUTITECH® with market insights and briefings and facilitated key engagements and connections with partners. Austrade’s Business Development Managers were integral fostering a productive working relationship with current local partners and distributors. These efforts are aimed at promoting the company’s advanced safety equipment and establishing a strong foothold in the Indian mining industry.

Innovation drives success for Mineral Technologies

Mineral Technologies has been expanding its footprint in India by leveraging Austrade support, its extensive experience and expertise in mineral processing. With an extensive presence in the Indian market, the company has established offices in Kolkata, Kochi and Goa.

It provides specialised mineral processing solutions across the project lifecycle to major Indian clients, offering key engineering services. The company’s success in India is attributed to its innovative solutions, particularly in spiral technology for gravity separation, which has made it a leader in the mineral processing equipment sector.

Mineral Technologies has identified several key strategies that have been crucial to its success in India. These include:

• building strong relationships with customers and industry influencers
• establishing a robust local presence with offices and a testing facility in Goa
• continually innovating to meet the demands of India's rapidly urbanising market.

The company also focused on quality control by managing technology and intellectual property from Australia. It supports the local market through well-established organisational structures and partnerships facilitated by Austrade. This comprehensive approach has allowed Mineral Technologies to maintain a leading position in India and continue its expansion efforts.

Delegates and Austrade staff at the International Mining & Machinery Exhibition in Kolkata.

Austrade supports Indian expansion

Austrade supported Australian METS companies to explore and expand into India in 2024, both in India and Australia. This was achieved through trade events, market insights and tailored support, facilitating key connections and business opportunities.

International Mining & Machinery Exhibition (IMME) 2024

October saw 67 delegates from 46 Australian companies attend India’s leading mining event in Kolkata, the International Mining & Machinery Exhibition (IMME) 2024. On the ground, the focus on sustainable, environmentally responsible practices is evident. Australia’s expertise in green mining – covering areas like mine optimisation, renewable energy integration, waste reduction, and safety innovation – was highly coveted.

Working in collaboration with representatives from 5 Australian states, Australian METS companies were showcased, highlighting Australia’s commitment to helping India build a greener mining future.

Delegates exhibited at the Australian National Pavilion, attended the High Commissioner’s Breakfast Briefing, and linked with key contacts from the Indian mining industry at the Australian Mining Business Networking Reception.

Two MOU/agreements were announced during the event. The Australian High Commissioner to India Phillip Green also met with all the Australian METS companies. Some were new to market, exploring new opportunities; a number had recently entered the Indian market with their first orders; and others have an established presence in South Asia.

India Market Update Roadshow 2024

Austrade is deepening Australia’s trade with India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka through the South Asia Business Exchange (SABX) Program. SABX focuses on bringing Australian businesses to market on sector-specific business missions, developing their South Asia literacy, and highlighting the export opportunities that abound in some of the world’s fastest growing economies.

As part of SABX, Austrade delivered an India Market Update Roadshow across Australia, covering key priority sectors and opening sessions up to both online and in person attendance. Denise Eaton, Austrade’s Bengaluru-based Trade and Investment Commissioner, hosted 4 sessions in Brisbane, Perth and Darwin. Alongside colleagues from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Austmine, she delivered updates on the state of the market and export opportunities for Australian businesses interested in working with India to create a more sustainable future.

Over the 3-week period, the roadshow was attended by over 60 Australian industry representatives and exporters including from METS companies.

Learn more about the Australia India Business Exchange and how Austrade can help you grow your exports to India.