Expanding Horizons: Indonesia’s Strategic Push into Africa’s Mineral Markets

BALI, RAKYAT NEWS – During the Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) in Badung, Bali, Abdul Kadir Jailani, Director General for Asia Pacific and Africa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced Indonesia’s initiative to strengthen its collaboration with African countries regarding critical minerals essential for electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

Jailani emphasized the importance of diversifying sources for these critical minerals, stating, “The production of EV batteries requires more than just nickel; a variety of critical minerals are involved. Many African countries possess significant reserves of these minerals.”

He cited the ongoing partnership between Indonesia’s MIND ID and Tanzania over lithium as a successful example. Jailani highlighted that relying solely on domestic sources for these critical minerals is insufficient, thus international cooperation is crucial.

“The energy collaboration is vital as Indonesia’s energy transition needs critical minerals, which we cannot solely produce ourselves,” Jailani added.

Moreover, Jailani pointed out Africa’s vast potential not only in mineral resources but also in trade opportunities. He noted that Indonesia’s trade relations with Africa have been relatively modest and stressed the need for Indonesia to enhance its business connections with African nations.

“It is time for Indonesia to engage more proactively. The African market represents an untapped potential that we need to leverage effectively,” Jailani stated.

In line with this, Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has identified Africa as a key market for Indonesia’s EV battery industry expansion. During the International Battery Summit in Jakarta, Pandjaitan highlighted the continent’s future potential, saying, “Africa’s population is expected to double by 2045, creating a substantial market.”