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The article discusses the eruption at the Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP), a complex of factories, smelters and power plants on the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia last Christmas Eve 2023. Topics discussed include the task for the workers to fix a submerged arc furnace, which melts nickel ore at temperatures around 1400 degree Celsius, situation of the workers after the eruption, and background on IMIP.

A recent explosion at a Chinese-owned facility in Indonesia has brought attention to the risks associated with Jakarta's focus on battery metal processing. The explosion, which resulted in 21 fatalities, has sparked worker protests and calls for tighter regulation in the industry. Indonesia has become a major player in the global battery material industry, attracting Chinese investment and creating jobs. However, this incident has raised concerns about worker safety and the environmental impact of the industry. The upcoming presidential election in Indonesia may be influenced by this issue, with candidates expressing differing views on the government's policy. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia's energy minister apologized for a policy that caused long queues for subsidized cooking gas, leading to public anger. The government ended the ban on small retailers selling three-kilogram canisters of liquefied petroleum gas due to irregularities in distribution. President Prabowo Subianto summoned the minister over the move, which impacted the government's popularity, as subsidies mainly benefit middle- and higher-income Indonesians. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the significant increase in coffee prices, which has impacted demand in major markets, including the US and Europe. Emerging economies, such as Vietnam and Indonesia, are also experiencing a decline in consumption due to high prices. The shift towards consuming more coffee in producing countries is causing concern for the industry, with potential impacts on demand. Additionally, China, a growing market for coffee, has seen a slowdown in shipments from Brazil, raising questions about future consumption trends. [Extracted from the article]

PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) of Indonesia is planning to issue a dollar bond of up to $1.5 billion, marking its return to the US-currency debt market after more than four years. The state-owned electricity company is considering this move to address liquidity needs and take advantage of favorable market conditions. PLN's total debt was approximately $24.7 billion as of September 30, 2024, and the company last accessed the dollar bond market in June 2020. [Extracted from the article]

The Indonesian government plans to require commodity exporters to keep all foreign currency earnings onshore for at least a year to address concerns about the weakening rupiah. This new rule, approved by President Prabowo Subianto, is stricter than the current requirement of keeping 30% of earnings onshore for three months. The policy aims to boost US dollar reserves and may increase working capital costs for exporters, with analysts predicting further weakening of the rupiah. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia is facing increased costs in its biofuel program due to a surge in palm oil prices. The government plans to raise the volume of palm oil used in its biofuel mix from 35% to 40%, but the higher prices have made the biofuel more expensive. To cover the subsidies for biodiesel, funds are collected from levies on palm oil exports, but this may not be sufficient with current prices. As a result, the government is considering raising the export levy, and only the public service sector will receive subsidies for the more expensive B40 biodiesel, leaving fuel retailers to either absorb the cost or pass it on to consumers. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have dropped due to concerns over weak Malaysian exports and competition from soybean oil. Data shows a decrease in overseas shipments from Malaysia, particularly to India, the largest buyer. Analysts attribute the decline in demand to winter weather conditions and the fact that palm oil is currently trading at a premium to soybean oil. Traders are also adjusting their positions ahead of the holiday season. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia is moving forward with a planned increase in the value-added tax (VAT) to 12% from 11% in 2025, despite concerns about its impact on consumption and economic growth. The government will provide exemptions for basic goods and services like food, health, education, and public transport, while also implementing a one percentage point hike on certain staples. The decision to proceed with the VAT hike has sparked public backlash, with concerns about weakening purchasing power and layoffs in the manufacturing sector. The government aims to maintain a healthy state budget while offering incentives such as income tax coverage for labor-intensive sectors and discounts on electricity tariffs to mitigate the effects of the VAT increase. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia plans to increase its value-added tax to 12% from 11% in 2025, despite public backlash over weakening purchasing power and layoffs. The government will maintain exemptions on basic goods and services while raising taxes on certain staples. The tax hike aims to boost state revenues while offering incentives to support low-income households and stimulate the economy. [Extracted from the article]

Recent heavy rains and flash floods in Southeast Asia have impacted palm and rubber plantations, causing disruptions in production and forcing evacuations of thousands of people. Countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines have experienced severe flooding, landslides, and power outages, affecting key industries such as palm oil and rubber. The unusual intensity of precipitation has led to concerns about supply shortages and production declines, with some regions experiencing significant crop losses. The situation is being closely monitored by government weather agencies and local authorities to manage the impact of the ongoing weather events. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia's Industry Minister has deemed Apple's $100 million investment offer as unfair, citing discrepancies in the amount compared to investments made in other countries. The government is seeking further negotiations before allowing the sale of the iPhone 16 in the country. This move is part of Indonesia's efforts to boost local manufacturing and prioritize fair resolutions with international companies. Despite challenges, Indonesia remains a potential growth market for tech companies like Apple. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia's Industry Minister has deemed Apple's $100 million investment offer in the country as unfair, citing the tech giant's larger investments in other countries. The government may reject the offer, maintaining a ban on domestic iPhone 16 sales due to Apple not meeting a 40% domestic content requirement. This situation reflects Indonesia's efforts to pressure international firms to increase local manufacturing, as seen in previous bans on Google Pixel phones and regulations imposed on TikTok. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia has banned the sale of Google Pixel phones due to Alphabet Inc.'s failure to meet domestic content requirements. This decision follows a similar move to block the sale of iPhone 16 devices in the country after Apple Inc. did not meet investment commitments. The Indonesian government is enforcing strict policies to encourage greater investment from foreign companies in the country's growing smartphone market, where local content requirements are as high as 40%. Apple has fallen short of its investment pledge, while competitors like Samsung and Xiaomi have established local factories in Indonesia. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia is carefully managing the production of nickel ore to maintain a balance between supply and demand, as stated by the country's minister for energy and mineral resources. The shortage of ore due to government licensing issues has led to increased imports from the Philippines, impacting nickel smelters in Indonesia. Despite efforts to stabilize the market, weak demand for stainless steel has kept benchmark nickel prices low, with hopes for increased consumption from China's economic stimulus. French firm Eramet SA has faced challenges with Indonesian permits, affecting its external ore sales, while the government aims to ensure fair opportunities for both large foreign-owned miners and smaller local miners. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have fallen due to a decrease in the prices of crude oil and soybean oil, which has reduced the appeal of biofuels. The decline in crude oil prices reduces the incentive to process vegetable oils into fuel. Additionally, the weakness in soybean oil prices has also dragged down palm oil prices. However, palm oil exports are increasing, and there are signs of weaker production in Malaysia, the second-largest grower of palm oil. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil is expected to reach its highest closing price in six months due to strong export projections from Malaysia, the second-largest producer of the commodity. In the first 10 days of October, exports from Malaysia increased by over 13% compared to the previous month, with significant growth in shipments to the European Union and India. The positive export outlook for palm oil is supported by rising demand for Chinese vegetable oils. As a result, refined palm olein and soybean oil prices have also seen increases. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have rebounded due to increased demand from India and a weaker Malaysian currency. India is expected to make purchases ahead of the Hindu festival season, which typically sees a rise in palm oil consumption for cooking and deep frying. Additionally, a jump in soybean oil prices and bargain-buying, along with a weaker ringgit, have contributed to the upward momentum of palm oil prices. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have risen due to increased demand from India and a weaker Malaysian currency. India is expected to make purchases ahead of the Hindu festival season, which includes the Diwali celebrations. Additionally, a rise in soybean oil prices has also contributed to the increase in palm oil prices. Bargain-buying and a weaker Malaysian ringgit have further supported the upward momentum of palm oil prices. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia has revised its wind power targets, planning to install less wind power than originally proposed under an international energy transition plan. The country's energy ministry is recommending adding 5 gigawatts of wind power by 2030, compared to the previous target of 8 gigawatts. By 2060, the ministry expects to have installed 37 gigawatts of wind power, instead of the previously planned 45 gigawatts. This reduction in targets reflects skepticism in Jakarta about the ability to achieve the goals set under the Just Energy Transition Partnership. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil, which has historically been the cheapest edible oil, is no longer the most affordable option due to decreased output in major producers and an abundance of alternative oils. Indonesian and Malaysian palm plantations, which supply 85% of the global market, are facing challenges as smallholders are hesitant to replant aging trees. Despite the recent increase in palm oil prices, it is unlikely that there will be a significant shift away from palm oil in the near future due to its unique qualities and its importance in various industries. However, seasonal factors and consumer preferences may lead to adjustments in the market. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo has inaugurated two new copper smelters in the country, which were built as a result of his policy of banning raw material exports. The smelters, built by PT Freeport Indonesia and PT Amman Mineral Internasional, can process about 2.6 million tons of copper concentrate and produce over a million tons of copper cathode per year. The smelters are part of the president's efforts to capture more value from Indonesia's raw material wealth by processing commodities onshore. While the nickel sector has seen significant investment into smelters, the construction of bauxite refineries has not matched mine output. The ban on copper concentrate exports had to be delayed to allow Freeport and Amman time to finish their smelters. President-elect Prabowo Subianto has promised to uphold these policies after being sworn in next month. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia has reduced its export levy on palm oil in an effort to increase the export of the commodity. The new levy, effective from September 22, will be set at 7.5% of the reference price, lowering the duty to $63 per ton from $90 for September. This move is aimed at making Indonesia more competitive than Malaysia, the second-largest producer of palm oil. The levy is used to fund replanting programs and provide biodiesel subsidies, and the reference rate is set monthly by the trade ministry to calculate export duties. [Extracted from the article]

The recent extreme weather conditions in Asia's major coffee-growing regions, including Vietnam and Indonesia, are expected to significantly impact the global coffee supply and keep prices high. Vietnam, which produces a third of the world's robusta coffee, is facing a 10-15% reduction in its harvest due to a drought followed by heavy rain. The shrinking coffee-growing land in Vietnam and rising domestic demand in Indonesia are also contributing to the limited relief in global markets. The increasing popularity of instant and grab-and-go coffee drinks, coupled with weather-related supply issues, has caused robusta prices to double in the past year. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- Indonesia's Finance Ministry issued new regulations to revise the palm oil export levies, in a bid to boost shipments of the tropical commodity from the world's biggest grower.The rules take effect on Saturday, September 21.©2024 Bloomberg L.P.By Eko ListiyoriniReported by Author [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia has reduced its export levy on palm oil in an effort to increase the export of the commodity. The new levy, effective from September 21, will be set at 7.5% of the reference price, lowering the duty to $63 per ton from $90 for September. This move is aimed at making Indonesia more competitive than Malaysia, the second-largest producer of palm oil. The levy is used to fund replanting programs and provide biodiesel subsidies. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- Indonesia's Finance Ministry issued new regulations to revise the palm oil export levies, in a bid to boost shipments of the tropical commodity from the world's biggest grower.The rules take effect on Saturday, September 21.©2024 Bloomberg L.P.By Eko ListiyoriniReported by Author [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia has reduced its export levy on palm oil in an effort to increase the export of this commodity. The new levy, effective from September 21, will be set at 7.5% of the reference price, resulting in a reduction from $90 to $63 per ton for September. This move is aimed at making Indonesia more competitive than Malaysia, the second-largest producer of palm oil. The levy is used to fund replanting programs and provide biodiesel subsidies. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil futures have declined for a second day due to the strengthening of the Malaysian currency, which has made the tropical oil more expensive for international buyers. The market in Kuala Lumpur is facing pressure as a result. Additionally, there is caution among market participants due to the possibility of Indonesia, the largest grower, reducing export duties to boost sales. Benchmark palm oil prices have fallen by 0.8% to 3,822 ringgit a ton, with a 1.7% decrease for the week and nearly a 4% decrease for the month. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have been fluctuating due to concerns about its biofuel demand and poor production outlook. The recent decline in petroleum prices has affected the appeal of palm oil as a biofuel. However, the market is being supported by concerns about the slow pace of production in Malaysia. Output in Malaysia, the world's second-largest palm oil grower, only increased by less than 3% in August compared to a surge of 14% in July. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have fallen to their lowest level in over two weeks due to a decline in vegetable oil prices in China. Benchmark palm oil futures in Kuala Lumpur dropped 1% in response to a more than 1.5% decrease in soybean oil and refined palm oil prices on the Dalian Commodity Exchange. Investors are eagerly awaiting official data from the Malaysian Palm Oil Board to gain insight into the supply situation, with reserves expected to have increased by 7.5% in August. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices are expected to reach a two-week low due to increased competition from soybean oil and decreased demand for biofuels. Soybean oil is now trading at a similar price to palm oil, reducing the premium it once held. Weaker petroleum prices are also impacting the market. Crude oil prices have been falling since July due to concerns about demand, particularly from China. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices are fluctuating due to concerns about tight supply in Indonesia and Malaysia, as well as signs of weaker demand. Heavy rains in Malaysia are raising concerns about supply disruptions, while stockpiles in Indonesia have decreased due to lower output and increased exports. However, demand for palm oil appears to be weak as some buyers are opting for cheaper alternatives like sunflower oil and soybean oil. Palm oil futures have experienced both gains and losses in response to these factors. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia's palm oil harvest is expected to decrease this year due to dry weather and aging trees, which will likely tighten global supply and keep prices high. The Indonesian Palm Oil Association and the Indonesian Palm Oil Board predict that output will be flat or up to 5% lower than in 2023, contrary to earlier predictions of an increase. Malaysia, the world's second-largest grower, is also facing supply issues due to old trees and a labor shortage. This decrease in production is a concern for the industry, as aging plantations need to be replenished to boost output. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have risen to a one-month high due to expectations of strong demand from top importers. India, the world's largest vegetable oil buyer, is preparing for the Diwali festival, while China is expected to increase its stockpiles. This increase in demand has caused palm oil to become more expensive than soybean oil, its closest substitute. Despite the potential for some buyers to switch to soybean oil, the premium of palm oil over soybean oil is likely to remain due to a decrease in palm oil exports from Indonesia. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices are expected to increase due to strong demand from top importers, including India and China. India's upcoming Diwali festival and increased stockpiling by China are driving the demand for cooking oils, which typically rises during this time. As a result, palm oil prices have surged, surpassing the price of rival soybean oil. While soybean oil usually commands a premium over palm oil, its premium has become negative for the first time since March 2022. This situation may prompt some buyers to switch to soybean oil, but the premium of palm oil over soybean oil is expected to remain due to shrinking exports from Indonesia and increasing consumption in the country. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia's palm oil harvest is expected to decrease due to dry weather and aging trees, which will likely tighten global supply and keep prices high. The Indonesian Palm Oil Association and the Indonesian Palm Oil Board predict that output this year will be flat or up to 5% lower than in 2023. This decline in production is also affecting Malaysia, the world's second-largest grower of palm oil. The aging plantations in Indonesia are a persistent problem, with many smallholders needing to replenish their trees to boost output. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices are expected to reach a three-week high due to concerns about tight supplies in major producing countries and an anticipated increase in demand. Indonesia plans to increase the blending of palm-based biofuels in diesel, while Malaysia's production has only slightly increased this month. However, there is optimism as India and China are expected to increase their purchases of palm oil. In India, consumption of cooking oils typically rises during the September to November period due to various festivals. [Extracted from the article]

Grains futures and palm oil prices were affected by a railway strike in Canada, a major exporter of agricultural goods. The strike caused logistic delays, potentially leading buyers to turn to the US for grain shipments. Wheat prices rose, while corn prices increased slightly and soybean prices dropped. In Kuala Lumpur, palm oil prices reached their highest point in over two weeks due to rising demand from India and concerns over tight supplies. The railway strike in Canada could further boost palm oil prices temporarily. [Extracted from the article]

Grains futures and palm oil prices have been affected by a railway strike in Canada, a major exporter of agricultural goods. The strike has caused the shutdown of Canada's two biggest railways, which is problematic for grain shipments that heavily rely on rail transport. Wheat prices rose slightly, while corn advanced and soybeans dropped. In Kuala Lumpur, palm oil prices reached their highest level in over two weeks due to expectations of rising demand from India and concerns over tight supplies. The railway strike in Canada could temporarily impact the palm oil market, adding to the already positive sentiment. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have dropped due to concerns about slower exports from Malaysia, the second-largest producer, and a stronger Malaysian currency. Shipments from Malaysia have decreased by almost 17% compared to the previous month. The stronger ringgit has made palm oil more expensive for international buyers. However, prices are expected to receive some support as India, the world's largest buyer of vegetable oils, is anticipated to increase purchases for the upcoming festival season. [Extracted from the article]

President Joko Widodo's new ministers, Bahlil Lahadalia and Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, have outlined their plans to increase oil and gas production and attract more private sector investment. Lahadalia will focus on supporting renewable energy and carbon capture projects, while Roeslani aims to find investors for the new capital city, Nusantara. However, there are concerns about the incoming government's ability to continue Jokowi's key policies, such as the relocation of the capital and the development of metal smelters and battery factories, as the incoming leader has his own policy goals. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia is aiming to increase the blend of palm oil with diesel to 50% in order to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The current blend is 35% and the country plans to expand it to 40% next year, pending successful trials. This move could potentially lead to a shortage of palm oil and higher prices, which may impact countries like India that import a significant amount of vegetable oil. Indonesia is working to secure palm oil for biofuels without disrupting its use in food and other industries. The country also needs to increase its biofuel production capacity and improve technology to achieve the desired fuel quality. However, implementing a higher biofuel blending program may pose challenges for automobile manufacturers as engines would need to be modified to run on blended fuels. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have risen due to strong demand from India, the largest buyer of the commodity, and a weaker Malaysian currency. Indian traders have been active in the market, attracted by the relatively low prices of palm oil compared to alternatives like soy oil. Additionally, there is speculation that palm oil supply may be tightening in Indonesia, the world's largest producer, as exports fell in July. Palm oil futures in Kuala Lumpur increased to 3,738 ringgit a ton. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have increased due to a rise in soybean oil prices in Chicago and lower output in Malaysia. The recent increase in soybean oil futures has supported the prices of palm oil, which is a substitute for food and fuel. Additionally, there are expectations of increased domestic consumption of soybean oil in the US after a probe on imported used cooking oil for renewable fuels is completed. Weak production in Malaysia during early August has also contributed to the rise in palm oil prices. [Extracted from the article]

Palm oil prices have declined for a third consecutive day due to weaker vegetable oil prices in China and a downward trend in soybean oil futures in Chicago. The decline in related edible oils has affected palm oil futures in Kuala Lumpur. However, the losses in palm oil were limited by a weaker Ringgit and the opportunity for bargain buying after the recent price drop. Traders are also awaiting official data on Malaysian production, which will be released on August 12. [Extracted from the article]