REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, GRESIK -- SOE Minister Erick Thohir participated in the inauguration of production of Gresik Smelter owned by PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI). He said from this refining plant project, the value of nickel exports could rise to 40 billion US dollars.
“In the past, the value of nickel exports was only 1-2 billion dollars, but now it has reached 40 billion dollars. It's incredible. After nickel, Mr. President pushed back downstream of gold and copper,” Erick said in Gresik on Monday (23/9/2024).
Erick explained that Indonesia is ready to become a global player in the mineral derivatives industry. Going forward, he said the government's possible entry into the semiconductor industry would be Indonesia's future, because the raw materials are in Indonesia.
“This is what I mean that we should thank Mr. President. We must maintain this trust and ensure what we are working on today will bring prosperity to our people in the future. Sir, thank you for inaugurating this project and continuing to ensure Indonesia moves forward.” said Erick.
Erick also stressed that the Indonesian government is serious about controlling domestic downstream migration. He stressed that Indonesia was no longer an exporting country for raw minerals. Indonesia wants to ensure economic growth goes well.
“Today, we can stand tall here, but many forget that this all stems from the President's commitment. You have a vision, you watch, you watch, and you make sure everything goes well. I talked to Mr. Tony Wenas, and I've been here twice. Mr. Bahlil even more often, and Mr. President has come here three times, more than I have. It demonstrates his commitment to ensuring our nation's economic growth,” Erick said.