The Karnataka government has approved a new framework that will allow iron ore exports to resume through the state’s minor ports after a 15-year halt. The Karnataka Non-major Ports Iron Ore Handling Policy, 2025 has been cleared to regulate the movement and handling of iron ore through ports operating under the Karnataka Maritime Board.
Exports from 10 non-major ports were suspended in 2010 following widespread violations in iron ore mining and large-scale illegal shipments. The ban was imposed under provisions of the Karnataka Ports (Landing and Shipping Fees) Act, 1961, as authorities attempted to curb unlawful extraction and transport.
However, in 2022, the Supreme Court ruled that Karnataka could permit iron ore exports through its minor ports, provided operations adhered strictly to national policy and the same norms were followed across the country.
The newly approved State policy now establishes the regulatory pathway to restart exports, ensuring tighter oversight and compliance with central guidelines. The government said the framework is designed to prevent irregularities seen in the past while enabling legitimate trade to move through Karnataka’s non-major ports once again.
