In addition to gold, Amman’s smelter will also produce 220,000 tons of copper cathodes, 801,000 tons of sulfuric acid, 55 tons of silver, and 77 tons of selenium.

Beyond increasing gold output, these refineries play a crucial role in Indonesia’s ambition to establish a more self-sufficient mining industry. By processing minerals domestically, the country aims to retain greater economic benefits, create jobs, and reduce vulnerability to fluctuations in global commodity prices.

The mining sector has welcomed the initiative, but industry leaders stress the need for long-term policy stability.

 

Executive Director of the Indonesian Mining Association (IMA), Hendra Sinadia, noted that Freeport and Amman hold substantial gold reserves, ensuring sustainability. However, he cautioned that government support and regulatory clarity will be key to maintaining investment confidence.

The launch of these PMRs represents a broader shift in Indonesia’s resource management strategy. The government continues to push for greater industrialization across various sectors, ensuring that natural resources are processed locally rather than exported as raw materials. This approach aligns with President Prabowo’s vision of strengthening Indonesia’s industrial base and reducing dependency on foreign processing.

 

With these two refineries now operational, Indonesia is poised to solidify its position as a major player in the global gold market. The success of these projects will depend on consistent government policies, stable business conditions, and continued investment in downstream industries, ensuring long-term benefits for the national economy. (Uki Ruknuddin)

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