PT Vale Indonesia Tbk (INCO) targets to complete three nickel processing and refining (smelter) projects in 2026-2027. With the operation of the project, the company can absorb as many as 30,000 new workers.

The three projects include a nickel smelter project using High Pressure Acid Leaching (HPAL) technology in Pomalaa, Kolaka Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, in collaboration with Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt Co and Ford Motor Co. This smelter will produce 120 thousand tons per year of Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate (MHP).

Second, the nickel smelter project in Morowali, Central Sulawesi, in collaboration with Shandong Xinhai Technology Co., Ltd (Xinhai). Third, the HPAL smelter project in Sorowako, South Sulawesi, also in collaboration with Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt Co.

Vale Indonesia President Director Febriany Eddy said that her party will continue to prioritize the absorption of Indonesian workers, which to date has reached 5 thousand workers and is estimated to reach 12 thousand workers by the end of 2025.

"When all three projects are completed, it will require around 30 thousand workers. This is the direct workforce," he told CNBC Indonesia in the Mining Zone program, quoted on Wednesday (9/4/2025).

Febriany assessed that the absorption of labor will have a direct impact on the company's operational and production activities. Not only about the absorption of labor, Vale also prioritizes local social development, especially in the Sulawesi region in the long term, which is considered to have a positive effect on the community.

"Then there is also our social program, our community development where here we emphasize the principle of three pillars. Where companies, communities, and the government together build a master plan for a long-term community development program," he added.

Thus, the large absorption of labor for the three smelters currently being built by the company is believed to be able to encourage a good future for Indonesia.

"Well, if we can do all of this, I think the benefits will be very good for Indonesia in the future. Not only for today, but also for the future of Indonesia," he said.