The Indian government plans to require new steelmaking units to utilize at least 30% domestic coking coal by 2030. This policy aims to minimize dependence on international imports, which reached 58 million tons in 2025.

Domestic plants currently integrate roughly 20% local coking coal, and reaching the proposed threshold requires investments in coal washing and furnace technology due to quality constraints.

This proposal supports the national goal of expanding crude steel capacity to 300 million tons by 2030. Officials anticipate lower import costs and increased self-sufficiency. Market participants advocate for incentives regarding technology upgrades and logistics to ensure commercial feasibility for higher domestic blending ratios.