RKAB quota rumors originating from Indonesia have once again put pressure on prices in the global nickel market. SHFE nickel contracts fell by 2,57%, while LME nickel prices also declined by approximately 2,9%.
The market activity is mainly driven by claims that one of Indonesia’s leading nickel ore producers will be granted a substantial additional production quota for the second half of 2026. However, Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has not yet announced an official quota amount.
On the other hand, the strong increase in Indonesia’s nickel ore imports is drawing attention. In the first half of 2026, the country’s nickel ore imports reached 8,87 million tonnes, of which 8,58 million tonnes were imported from the Philippines. Imports increased by approximately 65% compared with the same period last year.
Indonesia, the world’s largest nickel producer, continues to see rising ore imports, keeping production quotas, ore quality, and access to high-grade raw materials on the industry’s agenda. The official RKAB figures to be announced by ESDM are being closely monitored for indications of the market’s direction.