In a significant development for the metals and mining sector, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has given its approval for Lloyds Metals & Energy 's acquisition of a substantial stake in Thriveni Pellets. This regulatory clearance marks a crucial step forward in the transaction process.

Key Details of the Acquisition

Implications of the Deal

The CCI's approval allows Lloyds Metals & Energy to proceed with acquiring nearly half of Thriveni Pellets' ownership. This strategic move is likely to strengthen Lloyds Metals & Energy's position in the pellet manufacturing segment of the steel industry.

Regulatory Significance

The clearance from the CCI is a crucial regulatory hurdle that has been overcome. This approval indicates that the competition watchdog has found no significant anti-competitive concerns arising from this acquisition.

Industry Impact

This transaction could potentially reshape the competitive landscape in the iron ore pellet market. Lloyds Metals & Energy's significant stake in Thriveni Pellets may lead to synergies and potentially influence the supply dynamics of iron ore pellets, which are essential raw materials for the steel industry.

Next Steps

With the CCI's approval in place, the involved parties can now move forward with finalizing the transaction. Stakeholders will be keenly watching how this partnership unfolds and its potential effects on the broader metals and mining sector.

As this development continues to evolve, market participants will be closely monitoring any further announcements or strategic moves from both Lloyds Metals & Energy and Thriveni Pellets.

Lloyds Metals & Energy Limited (LMEL), a leading integrated metal and mining company, has reported strong operational performance for the first half of fiscal year 2026 (H1FY26), with significant growth across key segments.

Iron Ore Production Soars

The company's iron ore production reached 7.4 million tonnes in H1FY26, marking a substantial 24% increase year-over-year. This growth was particularly pronounced in Q2FY26, with volumes hitting 3.4 million tonnes, representing an impressive 77% year-on-year surge.

Operational Highlights

• Direct Reduced Iron (DRI): Production rose to 167,812 tonnes in H1FY26, up 4% from 161,672 tonnes in H1FY25.
• Pellet Production: The recently commissioned 4 MTPA pellet plant contributed 0.81 million tonnes in H1FY26, achieving an annualized capacity utilization of 79%.
• Banded Hematite Quartzite (BHQ): An additional 1.2 million tonnes of BHQ was mined, awaiting processing once the beneficiation plants are commissioned.

Infrastructure Developments

LMEL's operational performance has been further enhanced by key infrastructure developments:

1. Environmental Clearance: The company received clearance for 55 MTPA capacity, allowing for scaled-up production.
2. Slurry Pipeline: The commissioning of an 85 km slurry pipeline from Hedri to Konsari has improved evacuation efficiency, particularly during seasonal constraints.
3. New DRI Facility: A new 360 KTPA DRI facility at Ghugus was commissioned during Q2FY26, bolstering the company's production capabilities.

Production Overview

Lloyds Metals & Energy Limited, incorporated in 1977, operates one of the country's largest single-location iron ore mines at Surjagarh, Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra. With its expanded Environmental Clearance capacity and strategic location advantages, LMEL continues to strengthen its position as a vital contributor to India's steel value chain.

The company's focus on sustainability, innovation, and cost leadership, coupled with its integrated operations, positions it well to meet the growing demand in key steel and industrial markets across India.