India is committed to developing its own Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) if China restricts their supply, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal affirmed on Tuesday. This declaration comes in response to China's recent announcement of new export controls on TBMs and related equipment, effective November 18, 2026.
Speaking at the Young Leaders Discourse Forum in Delhi, Goyal emphasized India's resolve to bolster domestic manufacturing rather than depend on foreign suppliers. "If they refuse to provide tunnel boring machines, we will develop them ourselves in India. India is not one to bow down," he stated, highlighting a broader strategy of self-reliance.
China's Export Controls and India's Response
China's new regulations, announced on October 19, introduce export licensing requirements for specified tunneling equipment under its dual-use items framework. While not an outright ban, the measures have raised concerns globally regarding the supply of these crucial machines, which are vital for major infrastructure projects like metro rail networks, railway tunnels, and highways.
Goyal drew parallels to China's earlier restrictions on rare earth supplies, noting that India had successfully encouraged domestic startups to innovate alternatives. "When they restricted rare earths, we did not go around begging. We held a meeting with various startups in this field and encouraged them: why can't we develop motors without rare earths?" he recounted, indicating a proven track record of finding indigenous solutions.
Advances in Domestic TBM Manufacturing
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw further elaborated on India's progress in TBM manufacturing. Days after China's announcement, Vaishnaw confirmed that India, previously entirely dependent on imports, has begun manufacturing TBMs with diameters of 8 meters and 15 meters.
"Earlier, there was a time when all tunnel boring machines had to be imported. But now, all 8-meter diameter tunnel boring machines are being manufactured in India, and even 15-meter diameter machines have started being produced in the country," Vaishnaw stated.
He also highlighted the presence of a TBM manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu and plans to produce machines exceeding 16 meters in diameter soon. This rapid advancement underscores India's commitment to becoming self-reliant in the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of Tunnel Boring Machines.