Heaptalk, Jakarta — At the State Palace, President Prabowo, along with the Minister of Investment and Downstream Industries/Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), Rosan Roeslani, discussed strategies to strengthen electric vehicle (EV) investment in Indonesia’s industry development.
In a press statement following the meeting, Rosan explained that Indonesia has significant potential to play a more active role in the EV industry, given its abundant nickel resources and the already developing battery ecosystem. However, he also highlighted that, to date, domestic EV production remains limited.
“We have the potential in nickel, batteries, and even battery recycling. However, we still don’t have our electric cars, even though we are committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060. The President wants to achieve this even sooner,” said Rosan.
Furthermore, Rosan mentioned that Indonesia currently relies on EV investment from foreign companies such as Hyundai, BYD, and Wuling, which already established manufacturing facilities in the country. However, he emphasized the need for Indonesia to play a more significant role in this industry.
He added, “Our car production is around 1.2 million units annually and still growing. It is expected to reach 2.5 million by 2030. Hence, the question is, can’t we play a bigger role than that?”
Regarding brands that have already entered the Indonesian market, Rosan stressed that the government is not only focused on foreign investment but is also exploring the possibility of developing a national EV. “We already have the Maung (a local brand), and further developments may occur. We will discuss and work on this further,” said Rosan. Through these efforts, the government hopes to accelerate the development of the national EV industry and position Indonesia as a key player in the global supply chain.
