Deccan Gold Mines Limited (DGML), the sole listed gold exploration and mining company in India, has announced a significant development in its expansion strategy. Through its step-down subsidiary, Deccan Gold Mozambique LDA (DGMoZ), DGML has successfully shipped its first consignment of lithium ore to China. The shipment, which comprises 150 tons of ore with a lithium oxide (Li₂O) grade of 2.5%, represents the company’s entry into the burgeoning lithium market.
Hanuma Prasad Modali, Managing Director of DGML, highlighted the importance of this milestone: “This shipment underscores our transition into the critical minerals sector, with lithium being a key material for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage systems. We are committed to playing a significant role in the global supply chain for critical minerals and advancing sustainable resource development.”
Following this initial shipment, DGML aims to scale its lithium exports rapidly, targeting a monthly export volume of 1,000 tons. The company also plans to diversify its product offerings, including high-grade spodumene with over 4% Li₂O and lepidolite with over 2% Li₂O, to enhance its position in the global lithium market.
In addition to its export ambitions, DGML is progressing with exploration activities across its licensed areas in Mozambique. Comprehensive geological surveys and sampling are currently underway, with a bulk sample sent to SGS South Africa for beneficiation test work. This test work will be instrumental in optimizing the design of a new process plant, expected to have a capacity of 100 tons per day and be operational by the end of 2025. The plant is anticipated to produce approximately 7,000 tons per annum of high-grade concentrate.
Looking ahead, DGML plans to diversify its mineral portfolio further to include caesium, tantalum, gallium, and beryllium—materials crucial for high-tech applications in electronics, aerospace, and renewable energy. The company is also exploring strategic partnerships to strengthen its global market position and drive innovation.
