The Indonesian Nickel Miners Association (APNI) has stated that revisions to the 2026 Work Plan and Budget (RKAB) are expected to be approved in July. The revised RKAB is projected to increase this year's nickel production quota by up to 30%.
APNI Secretary General Meidy Katrin Lengkey, in an interview on Monday, March 2, 2026, stated that the association has previously held in-depth discussions with the Director General of Minerals and Coal at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources regarding this matter, and a revision proposal may be submitted in July.
Meidy indicated that the maximum approved revision for the nickel budget is approximately 25% to 30%. Therefore, based on calculations, the country's nickel ore demand of around 400 million tonnes for smelters is expected to be met with a budget of 270 million tonnes, 23 million tonnes of imports from the Philippines, and a 30% adjustment to the budget.
Meidy added that the final revision could range between 20% and 30% of the total, with 25% to 30% considered a relatively balanced range. So, based on calculations, 400 million minus 250 million tonnes (budget), minus 23 million tonnes (imports from the Philippines), plus a 30% increase in the revised budget.
Written by Cora Ji, jiruyan@mysteel.com
