Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Indonesia next week for discussions with President Prabowo Subianto, focusing on enhancing cooperation in the critical minerals sector. Indian Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty revealed that the two nations are preparing several memorandums of understanding across various fields, including critical minerals, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, education, and space. While some agreements are anticipated to be finalized during Modi’s visit, others remain in the negotiation phase.
The primary aim of this partnership is to bolster India’s collaboration with Indonesia in expanding the processing and manufacturing of critical minerals. The envisioned partnership would establish production facilities in Indonesia, ensuring a stable supply for both the Indian market and for global exports. Additionally, discussions are in progress regarding potential joint ventures with Indonesian partners.
Indonesia, known as the world’s largest nickel producer, has gained strategic importance for nations seeking reliable sources of critical minerals vital for electric vehicles, batteries, and other advanced technologies. The country mandates that nickel be processed domestically before export, a policy designed to stimulate investment in downstream industries.
This visit underscores India’s broader strategy to fortify its critical mineral supply chains while reducing reliance on external sources. At the same time, it aims to foster deeper economic ties with Indonesia. This strategic move is part of India’s efforts to secure its place in the global supply chain for critical minerals, which are increasingly crucial for technological advancement and economic growth.
