Indonesia Amends Mineral Export Policy to Allow Temporary Exports Due to Force Majeure

[Indonesia Revises Mineral Export Policy, Allows Temporary Exports Under Force Majeure.]

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources today issued Ministerial Regulation No. 6 of 2025, amending the provisions of Regulation No. 6 of 2024 regarding the completion of domestic metal mineral refining facility construction. The new regulation aims to address temporary export needs for special mining license (IUPK) holders whose refining facilities are unable to operate due to force majeure.

Under the new regulation, copper production-phase IUPK holders who have completed the construction of refining facilities but are unable to operate due to force majeure may export processed products within a specified time frame and quantity. This measure is designed to ensure the economic benefits of mining activities and national revenue, while promoting the repair of affected refining facilities.

In recent years, the Indonesian government has been actively promoting the development of domestic mineral processing industries, requiring mining companies to build refining facilities to reduce raw material exports. However, some companies have faced operational disruptions and economic losses due to force majeure events such as natural disasters or technical failures. The new regulation provides a temporary solution for these companies while safeguarding national interests.