India is poised to significantly increase its iron ore imports in 2025, with projections ranging between 8 to 10 million tonnes (MT)-a sharp rise from the 6 MT imported in 2024, according to a recent report. This surge is largely attributed to JSW Steel’s ongoing capacity expansions at its key manufacturing hubs in Vijayanagar (Karnataka) and Dolvi (Maharashtra).
The expansion projects are part of JSW Steel’s strategic plan to meet India’s rising domestic demand for steel, which is being driven by a renewed push in infrastructure development. From high-speed rail corridors and metro projects to highways and renewable energy structures, the demand for steel-intensive construction has grown substantially under government-backed initiatives like the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and Make in India.
With domestic iron ore supply constraints in certain regions, Indian steelmakers are increasingly looking to global markets to supplement their raw material needs. Industry experts believe this move will help maintain consistent production and meet tight construction timelines for both public and private sector projects.
The steel industry accounts for a significant portion of India’s industrial output and plays a crucial role in the country’s economic development. As JSW Steel ramps up production, its reliance on imported iron ore highlights the need for long-term resource planning, improved logistics, and potentially new trade relationships with major ore-exporting countries such as Australia, Brazil, and South Africa.
This increase in imports not only reflects the robust health of India’s steel sector, but also underlines the structural changes needed to ensure sustained raw material availability in line with infrastructure ambitions.
