[SMM Nickel Flash] Indonesia Tightens Strategic Mineral Screening, Delaying Some NPI Shipments

Published: Jul 27, 2026 11:16

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According to SMM market sources, several vessels carrying Indonesian nickel pig iron (NPI) have recently experienced export clearance delays as cargoes undergo additional testing for strategic mineral elements. According to market sources, export verification for certain mineral products is now accompanied by testing for 17 rare earth elements (REEs), uranium (U), and thorium (Th), extending surveyor report processing times and delaying the clearance of some NPI shipments. The tighter inspections were introduced following a recent enforcement case involving PT Putraprima Mineral Mandiri (PMM), PT Sucofindo, and the Pangkalpinang Customs and Excise Office. While the stricter inspections may continue to lengthen export documentation procedures and temporarily affect NPI shipment schedules, there is currently no indication that Indonesia's NPI production or overall export supply has been affected.

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