“All raw material processing must happen in Indonesia,” he told an international critical minerals forum in Bali, emphasizing the country’s strategy to boost domestic processing of key minerals like nickel, cobalt, and silica sand, vital for electric vehicle batteries and solar panels.
Pasaribu acknowledged challenges, including the need for advanced technology and investment, but said Indonesia is opening opportunities to both domestic and foreign investors.
“We're working to improve permit processes, fiscal incentives, and create a more investor-friendly environment,” he added.
Related news: Downstream sector draws 30 percent of Indonesia's investments
By September 1, 2025, investment in mineral downstreaming is projected to reach 193.8 trillion rupiah (US$12.11 billion), led by nickel at Rp94.1 trillion, followed by copper, bauxite, iron and steel, tin, and other minerals including silica, gold, and cobalt.
The government’s goal, Pasaribu said, is to ensure all processing—from extraction to final products—occurs in-country, creating more jobs and long-term economic benefits.
“We are giving foreigners access to our resources, but the processing must happen here,” he stressed.
The forum brought together global mining and manufacturing stakeholders, policymakers, and investors to discuss sustainable supply chains and investment collaboration.
Related news: Indonesia to accelerate US$38 billion downstreaming projects
Translator: Dewa Ketut Sudiarta Wiguna, Cindy Frishanti Octavi
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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