Nickel & critical minerals in Indonesia

Nickel pig iron smelters at IMIP cut output to 30–40% of capacity

RKEF lines at the Morowali industrial park began reducing production. The market is waiting on further 2026 mining quota (RKAB) approvals, and a revised ore benchmark formula took effect on 15 September.

Why it matters: Output cuts at Indonesia's largest nickel hub ripple straight into battery and stainless supply chains.

Ecopro installs HPAL reactors at its Sulawesi smelter, eyes 2027 production

The BNSI project inside the IGIP complex is designed for 90,000 tonnes of nickel a year. Partners GEM aim to finish construction by end-2026.

Smelters used under half the 2026 ore quota in the first six months

The nickel miners' association APNI reported 120.6 million wet tonnes consumed in January–June, about 46% of the 260–270 million tonne quota, a sign of softer downstream demand.

Bantaeng residents describe living between smelters that run day and night

A long-form report on smoke, dust and health complaints around the Bantaeng Industrial Park, where several Chinese-backed smelters operate. Residents say neither companies nor government have acted.