First metal tapping at Weda Bay Nickel, a key milestone in a successful development

This achievement took place ahead of initial schedule, just 20 months after the groundwork ceremony that kickstarted the construction of the nickel pyrometallurgical unit on Halmahera Island, Indonesia.

Mining operations started in October 2019. PT Weda Bay nickel ore is aimed at supplying ferroalloy plants located on the island, starting with the JV. The today’s step is a key milestone for the development of economy and employment in Halmahera island, North Maluku, contributing to the sustainable development roadmap of eastern Indonesia and bringing value to the local communities.

The joint venture between Eramet, Tsingshan and PT Antam is now fully entering into operations. The ramp up will continue over the coming months, with the startup of the three other furnaces.

The joint venture shareholders would like to commend the efforts of all the workers, contractors and project management teams who showed an exceptional commitment while facing the unprecedented situation of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.