Chinese Nickel Tycoon Taps Top Global Traders for Aluminum Push

A Chinese metals tycoon, known for reshaping Indonesia’s nickel sector, is negotiating with Mercuria Energy, Glencore, and Trafigura to fund a $3 billion aluminum smelter project. The proposed smelter marks the tycoon’s strategic shift from nickel to aluminum, leveraging his industry influence and existing infrastructure in Indonesia. Talks involve top global commodity traders, signaling strong interest in Indonesia’s expanding metals sector and its role in global supply chains. The $3 billion investment would further cement Indonesia’s position as a critical hub for battery and industrial metals production. If successful, the deal could accelerate aluminum output, meeting rising demand from renewable energy and electric vehicle sectors.