Indonesia's strategic move: From bauxite to billets, a vertical integration play is on

In a significant development for the global aluminium market, Indonesia is poised to become a major player in the industry, driven by its vast reserves of bauxite and a strategic partnership with China.

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According to recent data, Indonesia's bauxite reserves stand at an impressive 1 billion tonnes, making it an attractive destination for aluminium producers. The country's ambitious plan to produce everything in-house, from bauxite to billet, is a key element of the government's broader electric vehicle (EV) strategy.

Indonesia aims to produce 600,000 EVs by 2030 and has partnered with four Chinese EV companies - Neta, Wuling, Chery, and Sokon - to build an EV production and export hub in the country. The partnership is expected to bring significant technological advancements and create highly skilled jobs in Indonesia. Moreover, the country's growing middle class presents a lucrative market for EVs.