ASIATODAY.ID, KENDARI — Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia marked a new milestone with its first direct export of green nickel products of ferronickel worth IDR 49.2 billion (USD 2.95 million) to Lianyunggang, China, from Kendari New Port on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
This shipment highlights the province’s readiness to compete in the global market while boosting economic growth and investment based on natural resources.
Governor of Southeast Sulawesi, Andi Sumangerukka, attended the launch ceremony and expressed his appreciation to the central government, investors, and industry players for their trust and commitment to collaborate with the province.
“On behalf of the Southeast Sulawesi Provincial Government, I extend our highest appreciation to the central government for its supportive policies and regulations, and to investors and industry players for their trust and commitment to work with Southeast Sulawesi,” said the Governor.
“We aim for Southeast Sulawesi to become a leading, competitive, and sustainable industrial hub based on natural resources.”
First Direct Export: Evidence of Kendari New Port’s Readiness
Governor Sumangerukka emphasized that this direct export demonstrates the province’s growing efficiency in port infrastructure, logistics, and shipping services. Kendari New Port, a modern container port, provides wider access to global trade.
“Direct exports shorten the distribution chain, reduce logistics costs, and improve export efficiency. It also strengthens Southeast Sulawesi’s role as a key node in the global industrial trade network,” he explained.
Sukanto Toding, Head of Southeast Sulawesi Industry and Trade Office, reported that the shipment consisted of 46 containers totaling 1,015 tons, showing an 8.4 percent increase from the previous period.
The shipment went directly from Kendari to China without stopping at major ports like Makassar, Surabaya, or Jakarta.
“This export is highly efficient, taking only about 16 days from Southeast Sulawesi to China. It is a first step to increase local revenue and open opportunities for other leading Southeast Sulawesi products,” said Sukanto.
Ceria Corp: Pioneer of Green Nickel of Ferronickel in Sulawesi
PT Ceria Nugraha Indotama (Ceria Corp) is the pioneer behind this direct export. Previously, Southeast Sulawesi nickel exports had to go through other ports, which created double handling and reduced local economic benefits.
By using Kendari New Port, Ceria Corp shortened the supply chain, cut costs, and sped up shipments to China to just 16 days.
Governor Sumangerukka encouraged other major companies, including Virtue Dragon, OSS, and PT Antam, to utilize Kendari New Port as their main export route.
Merah Putih Smelter: Advanced Technology for Green Nickel of Ferronickel
Ceria Corp’s success is supported by the Merah Putih Smelter in Kolaka, which employs high-efficiency electric furnace and advanced pyrometallurgical technology. The smelter offers:
– Higher nickel recovery rates than industry standards.
– Production of premium ferronickel for electric vehicle batteries.
– Low carbon emissions and sustainable waste management.
Automated systems and environmental management to minimize ecological impact.
Herryanto, GM of Pelindo Regional IV Kendari, added:
“Ceria Corp is a pioneer in direct exports. With the support of Pelindo, Sinokor, and Namsung, shipments are now recorded directly from Kendari, strengthening Southeast Sulawesi position in the global green nickel market.”
Economic and Strategic Impact
Direct exports accelerate regional economic growth and serve as an inspiration for other sectors, including fisheries and agriculture, to reach global markets.
“Ceria Corp proves that local companies can lead in the global market. It is a real inspiration for the future of Southeast Sulawesi industry,” said Herryanto.
About PT Ceria Nugraha Indotama
PT Ceria Nugraha Indotama is a leading Indonesian mining and industrial company focusing on ferronickel and green nickel production for battery and downstream applications.
As part of Ceria Corp, the company emphasizes sustainable, environmentally friendly mining and green energy transition.
The Merah Putih Smelter integrates advanced technology to produce premium products with minimal environmental impact, positioning Indonesia as a global hub for nickel downstreaming. (AT Network)
Follow Us at Google News and WA Channel