The QMB nickel resource project has successfully completed commissioning and capacity ramp-up and has entered the stage of stable production. The project applies high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) technology and is independently designed, commissioned, and operated by the company in Indonesia.

The project is independently designed and commissioned by GEM, based on an integrated approach that combines technological application, environmental management, and intelligent systems. The project processes laterite nickel ore directly into raw materials for new energy applications, supporting an integrated industry chain from laterite nickel ore processing to the production of new energy materials.

The project incorporates several key features in its planning and long-term development. First, the project utilizes low-grade laterite nickel ore to support more efficient resource use and lower-carbon development. Laterite nickel ore with nickel content ranging from 0.8% to 1.3%, which is generally not processed through pyrometallurgical routes such as RKEF or high-grade nickel matte processes, is used as feedstock. Through this approach, nickel, cobalt, and manganese contained in the ore are recovered and utilized. Compared with conventional pyrometallurgical processes, this method results in significantly lower carbon dioxide emissions per ton of nickel metal produced.

Second, the project is designed with an integrated industry chain. Using a modular and compact layout, the project is planned to produce approximately 73,000 tons of nickel metal, 7,000 tons of cobalt metal, and 10,000 tons of manganese metal annually on an area of about 70 hectares (1,060 mu). The production also includes high-purity nickel, cobalt, and manganese sulfate crystals for use as raw materials in new energy applications, with provisions for further downstream processing.

Third, the project supports research and human capital development in Indonesia. With an investment of RMB 200 million, the company has built laterite nickel hydrometallurgy and new energy materials engineering research center has been established to support research and development related to laterite nickel processing and materials engineering. Fourth, the project places emphasis on environmental management, operational controls, and workforce facilities. Wastewater, solid waste, and exhaust gas treatment systems have been installed to manage emissions in accordance with applicable Indonesian regulatory requirements, supported by real-time process monitoring and digital management systems. A nickel industry museum has also been established to present the historical development of nickel resources and their role in modern energy applications. In addition, workplace facilities have been provided to accommodate the cultural and religious practices of a diverse workforce. Upon reaching its designed production capacity, the project is expected to provide employment opportunities for more than 3,000 Indonesian workers.

On 14 January 2023, the company held a ceremony to mark the shipment of the first batch of 1,200 tons of nickel MHP. This shipment represents a milestone in the company’s efforts to support nickel resource supply and reflects progress in advancing integrated development across industrial operations, and cross-border cooperation between China and Indonesia.