The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources Emphasizes That There Has Been No Decision on the Amount of Nickel RKAB 2026
JAKARTA - The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has confirmed that there has been no decision regarding the total amount of the 2026 Nickel Work Plan and Budget (RKAB). This was emphasized amid the growing speculation regarding the possibility of changes to the nickel production quota ahead of the RKAB revision period.
Director General of Minerals and Coal (Minerba) Tri Winarno said the government was still discussing various proposals for changes to the RKAB submitted by business actors and had not set a specific production figure.
"Regarding the nickel RKAB, the government will still use the official evaluation mechanism before determining changes to the RKAB. It has not reached the decision on the number, it is still under discussion," said Tri, Thursday, June 25.
He emphasized that the current process is an evaluation of the industry's needs, not a relaxation of production quotas.
"Later there will still be an evaluation. So it can't be immediately (relaxation)," he said.
According to Tri, the government needs to ensure that production is in line with market and downstream industry needs. Thus, the supply of raw materials for smelters can be maintained, while market balance, commodity prices, and the sustainability of national mineral reserves remain a concern in every decision-making.
This decision responds to the growing speculation in the market regarding the possibility of a total change in the nickel RKAB after the revision period scheduled for next month. However, the government emphasized that all incoming proposals must still undergo a review process before being decided.
According to the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Regulation Number 17 of 2025, business entities can indeed submit a change in the RKAB after submitting a periodic report until the second quarter or no later than July 31 of the current year. However, the submission of a change in the RKAB is not necessarily approved.
"Each proposal is carefully evaluated based on production data, industry needs, market conditions, and the balance of the national supply chain," said Tri.
He added that the revision process is not merely aimed at increasing or reducing production quotas, but ensuring that the figures set are truly reflective of the actual needs in the field.
The government continues to strive to maintain a balance between the interests of the upstream and downstream sectors. Miners need to get space to continue operating and carrying out their investments, while the processing and refining industry needs adequate raw material supplies so that downstream activities can continue.
At the same time, the government also needs to ensure that production does not grow excessively.
"Too high production risks suppressing commodity prices, accelerating the depletion of reserves, and reducing the effectiveness of national mining governance," said Tri.