JSW Group Expands into Copper Mining with Acquisition of Jharkhand Mines

JSW Group has entered the non-ferrous metals sector by acquiring two copper mines in Jharkhand, India, from Hindustan Copper through a competitive bidding process. This diversification aligns with the rising global demand for copper driven by electric vehicles, renewable energy projects, construction, and consumer appliances.

Under the agreement, JSW will handle the development, capital investment, and operations of the mines, while Hindustan Copper will contribute technical expertise and receive a share of the revenue. The mines, currently in the exploration stage and classified as pre-MPPA, are expected to take at least two years to become operational. Before production begins, the mines must comply with strict environmental, safety, and legal requirements.

With a combined capacity of three million tonnes per annum (MTPA), these mines are expected to eventually supply ore to JSW's upcoming copper smelter, although details of the smelter project have not been disclosed. In the interim, JSW plans to market the extracted ore both domestically and internationally. The mining operations will be managed by SouthWest Mining, a JSW subsidiary with established expertise in the sector.