Indonesia is actively engaging with European investors to advance its nickel downstream program, aiming to enhance the value of one of its most strategic commodities. Yuliot, Deputy Minister of Investment and Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), revealed that discussions are ongoing with several European companies, including BASF SE. Although BASF SE previously withdrew from the Sonic Bay hydrometallurgical nickel smelter megaproject in Weda Bay, North Maluku, Indonesia remains keen on attracting BASF and other European industries to invest in the nickel sector. The Indonesian government is currently mapping out potential European industrial players who could significantly contribute to the nickel downstream industry. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to attract investments that can enhance capacity, technology, and create new economic opportunities within the country.

Heldy Satrya Putera, Deputy for Strategic Investment Downstreaming at the Ministry of Investment/BKPM, emphasized that the focus is not solely on BASF. The government is committed to encouraging all existing and potential players in the nickel downstream sector to develop higher-tier products. This approach underscores the government’s dedication to not only securing investments but also fostering further development of nickel-based products. Nickel downstreaming in Indonesia holds immense potential for increasing the value-added of the country’s nickel production. This process involves not only converting nickel into final products but also expanding technological development and production capacity. With international investor support, Indonesia aims to accelerate the downstreaming process, maximizing economic benefits from its nickel sector.

Source: https://nasional.kontan.co.id/news/indonesia-cari-investor-eropa-untuk-proyek-hilirisasi-nikel