[SMM Nickel Flash News] APNI Proposes 30 Mt Buffer as Indonesia’s Nickel Ore Demand Outpaces RKAB

Published: Aug 14, 2026 10:02
The Indonesian Nickel Miners Association (APNI) has recommended setting the 2026 nickel ore RKAB at 270 million wmt plus a 30 million wmt strategic buffer, implying a potential total of 300 million wmt. The proposal aims to address rising raw-material requirements from Indonesia’s expanding smelting capacity. At full capacity, approximately 80 smelters would require an estimated 315 million wmt of nickel ore annually, highlighting a potential supply gap under the current quota. APNI also projects 15–25 million wmt of Philippine nickel ore imports in 2026, up around 67% YoY, to supplement domestic supply.

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The Indonesian Nickel Miners Association (APNI) has recommended settin - Shanghai Metals Market (SMM)