India is in discussions with the United States to join the Pax Silica supply chain collaboration for essential minerals and might join the US-led multilateral effort with additional countries in the first half of 2026, according to US Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg.

Helberg also pointed out the involvement of the European Union and Taiwan in the worldwide supply chain pact for essential minerals. He also disclosed that the US will participate in the IndiaAI Impact Summit, scheduled to take place in Delhi next February.

India has yet to provide any comments on the initiative. On December 12, at the Pax Silica Summit in Washington DC, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Israel, UAE, and Australia endorsed the declaration. The event also served as a display of strength against China's increasing chip aspirations.

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On Friday, the US declared it will postpone implementing tariffs on Chinese semiconductor imports for at least 18 months, until June 2027. The existing tariff rate is nonexistent. In response, Beijing stated it strongly disagrees with the action and accused Washington DC of misusing tariffs to "unjustly hinder Chinese industries."

Although the new declaration mainly focuses on the US's aim to lessen dependence on Chinese-controlled critical minerals, the coalition also seeks to create a dependable and secure environment throughout the worldwide technology supply chain.

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Nevertheless, Helberg made it clear that India's non-participation is unrelated to trade conflicts or diplomatic issues.

We consider India a crucial potential ally in efforts related to supply chain security, and we appreciate the chance to collaborate with them,” he stated.

Helberg mentioned that he maintains "almost daily communication" with Indian officials, and both parties are actively looking for ways to enhance cooperation swiftly.

 

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Elaborating on the US position, Helberg stated that nations like Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and the Netherlands were initially chosen due to their pivotal role in global semiconductor production. He remarked that the US intentionally opted to begin with a limited group prior to broadening the framework to encompass additional strategic allies like India.