Bhubaneswar: Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal has drawn attention to the strategic role of aluminium and steel in the ongoing global trade war, underscoring the opportunity for India to position itself as the world’s aluminium hub.

In his LinkedIn post, Agarwal shed light on how aluminium and steel have emerged as key commodities in the trade standoff, particularly between the US and its trading partners. With the United States imposing a steep 25% tariff on steel and aluminium imports from all countriesincluding close allies like Canada and Mexico, the global metals market is facing widespread disruption. In response, India has implemented a 12% safeguard duty on steel imports to protect its domestic industry.

Agarwal praised this move, stating, “I commend the government for proactively imposing a safeguard duty on steel. I am confident that the government will consider a similar step for aluminium.” He emphasized that aluminium, due to its lightweight and recyclable nature, is poised to surpass steel in strategic value.

“Modern economies are built on these two metalsbe it airports, railways, homes, vehicles, or mobile phones. But aluminium has the edge, and with India’s massive bauxite reserves, we are well-positioned to lead globally,” he said. A striking visual accompanying his post highlighted the top bauxite-producing nations, with India holding significant potential alongside leaders like Australia, Guinea, and China.

Agarwal pointed out that countries losing access to traditional markets due to tariff barriers will seek alternative destinations like India, making it critical for policymakers to support the domestic aluminium sector. “With our vast bauxite resources, India can become the aluminium capital of the world. This will not only enhance our global standing but also unlock a robust downstream industry that creates jobs and fuels economic growth,” his post mentioned.

Vedanta Aluminium, a key player in India’s aluminium industry, has been at the forefront of this transformation, investing heavily in refining and smelting infrastructure.

Agarwal’s call for focused policy support aims to catalyse further development in the sector and leverage India’s mineral wealth for long-term strategic advantage.