Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia is the world leader in nickel production and reserves, contributing 23% of global nickel reserves and 29% of total production, as highlighted in the 2022-2027 National Mineral and Coal Management Plan (RPMBN). This vast wealth of resources underpins Indonesia’s critical role in powering the global shift toward renewable energy, particularly in electric vehicle (EV) battery production. Here;s thelis of the 6 Largest Nickel Mines in Indonesia!
Below are some of the largest nickel mining operations in the country, showcasing their significant contributions to the global nickel supply chain.
1. Sorowako Block, South Sulawesi
The Sorowako Block, located in East Luwu, South Sulawesi, is Indonesia’s largest nickel mine, spanning 70,566 hectares. Managed by PT Vale Indonesia Tbk, the site employs open-pit mining to extract saprolite, a high-grade nickel ore. This ore is processed into nickel matte, a precursor for battery-grade materials.
PT Vale also manages other notable sites:
- Bahodopi Block in Central Sulawesi (22,699 hectares).
- Pomalaa and Sua-Sua Blocks in Southeast Sulawesi (24,752 hectares).
2. Gag Island Mine, West Papua
Situated in Raja Ampat, West Papua, the Gag Island mine covers 13,136 hectares, with 603.25 hectares allocated for production under forest-use permits. Operated by PT Gag Nikel, a subsidiary of PT Aneka Tambang Tbk, the mine holds total resources of 315.57 million wet metric tons (wmt), equally divided between low- and high-grade nickel ore.
3. Kawasi Mine, North Maluku
On Obi Island, North Maluku, the Kawasi mining area spans 2,247 hectares. Managed by PT Trimegah Bangun Persada Tbk, this site had reserves of 108.4 million wmt as of 2022, with remaining deposits of 84.51 million wmt.
4. Asera Deposit, Southeast Sulawesi
The Asera Deposit, in Konawe Utara, Southeast Sulawesi, spans 2,000 hectares and is operated by PT Bumi Konawe Minerina. Foreign investors, including Solway Group Investment, own the majority of the operation. In 2022, the site produced 23.72 thousand metric tons of nickel ore, with reserves estimated at 16 million metric tons and an average nickel grade of 1.5%.
5. Bahoomoahi Mine, Central Sulawesi
Located in Morowali, Central Sulawesi, the Bahoomoahi mine occupies 1,400 hectares. Owned by Solway Investment Group via PT Sulawesi Resources, the site holds reserves of 14 million metric tons, with additional potential reaching 13 million metric tons.
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Indonesia’s Strategic Advantage
Nickel’s essential role in the EV and renewable energy sectors places Indonesia in a unique position globally. The nation’s government actively promotes downstream development, such as nickel smelters and battery manufacturing, ensuring greater value from its natural resources.
However, challenges remain, particularly in balancing economic gains with environmental protection and equitable resource management. These issues will determine Indonesia’s ability to sustain its leadership in nickel production while fostering global clean energy ambitions.
(Becky)
