Government bars export of lithium-ion battery waste and scrap containing black mass

New Delhi In a positive for India’s mineral recycling industry, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) Wednesday barred the export of waste and scrap of primary cells and batteries as well as electric accumulators containing lithium-ion battery black mass. The order would be implemented with immediate effect.

Black mass refers to the particulate powdered mixture containing lithium, nickel, manganese, cobalt and graphite that is recovered during the recycling of lithium-ion batteries. The minerals are particularly essential for India’s electronic, electric vehicle as well as renewable energy storage ecosystem.

The latest amendment seeks to ensure they are retained for domestic recovery. Reflecting on the announcement, the Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI) in a statement held this would further ensure that domestic recyclers and critical mineral processors may get greater access to feedstock.