He said Indonesia is focusing on downstream industrialization to increase domestic added value, while the Philippines is among countries with large nickel reserves.
Bahlil said no G2G agreement exists, though business-to-business (B2B) cooperation opportunities remain open.
"There is no G2G cooperation, but B2B opportunities remain possible if they are mutually beneficial," he said on Tuesday.
He added that the government supports industrial cooperation that strengthens Indonesia's downstream ecosystem and provides economic benefits.
Indonesia continues to develop its domestic nickel processing industry to support the electric vehicle battery supply chain and improve global competitiveness.
The issue gained attention ahead of President Prabowo Subianto's planned visit to the Philippines on May 7–8, during which nickel industry development is expected to be discussed.
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Translator: Maria C, Asri Mayang Sari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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