India may press China to ease restrictions on the export of critical technologies and components during the upcoming BRICS Summit in New Delhi, as New Delhi seeks greater reciprocity in bilateral trade and technology access.
The issue could come up during discussions on the sidelines of the September 12–13 summit, which Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to attend. India is reportedly consulting industry groups on trade and investment barriers involving China before the talks.
Among the key concerns are Chinese restrictions affecting rare-earth magnets, battery cells, solar technology, specialised power equipment and High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems. Rare-earth magnets are particularly important for electric vehicle motors and other automotive applications.
India’s renewable energy and power transmission sectors are also closely watching restrictions on solar ingots and wafers, battery-making technology and specialised components used in HVDC transmission networks.
The discussions come as India and China cautiously work towards rebuilding economic engagement following years of strained ties after the 2020 border tensions. Recent diplomatic and trade-level engagements have indicated a gradual reopening of economic channels.
India has also eased some restrictions affecting Chinese investment and procurement in recent months. The government amended parts of the foreign direct investment framework and allowed select procurement of critical equipment from China.
Against this backdrop, the BRICS Summit could provide India with an opportunity to push for smoother access to critical technologies while balancing economic cooperation with concerns over supply-chain resilience and strategic dependence.
