JAKARTA – Indonesia is accelerating its transition to clean energy and electric vehicle (EV) technologies through enhanced partnerships with South Korea, aiming to achieve its ambitious greenhouse gas emission reduction target of 31.89% by 2030. Key discussions between Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto and a leading South Korean advanced materials company have underscored the commitment of both nations to expand cooperation in these critical sectors.

Minister Hartarto met with the Vice President and President of the company, a global leader in battery technology, to explore new investment opportunities and technology-sharing agreements. The focus was on strengthening collaboration in the EV ecosystem and clean energy sector, where the South Korean company already plays a significant role in Indonesia.

“International support is vital for Indonesia’s green energy initiatives,” Minister Hartarto emphasized, highlighting the government’s dedication to fostering partnerships that drive the development of sustainable technologies.

Despite global challenges such as declining EV demand, Indonesia’s potential for growth in this sector remains strong. The country’s abundant natural resources, skilled workforce, and supportive policies are key advantages. Indonesia’s strategic importance in the green industry and its expanding role in the global EV battery supply chain were central to the discussions.

A major highlight of the collaboration is the ongoing development of an EV battery cell factory in Karawang, West Java. The factory, being built in two phases, saw the completion of its first 10 gigawatt-hour (GWh) capacity phase in 2024, with the second phase, aiming to increase capacity to 20 GWh, currently under construction. This facility is expected to be a crucial supplier for Indonesia’s burgeoning EV market.

Beyond EV batteries, the South Korean company has proposed further collaborations in biodegradable plastics, aligning with Indonesia’s broader sustainability goals. Minister Hartarto welcomed these proposals, emphasizing Indonesia’s openness to investments in diverse clean energy projects.

One of the most promising initiatives discussed was the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) using Indonesia’s abundant palm oil resources. With its extensive palm oil plantations, Indonesia is well-positioned to lead in SAF production, significantly reducing the aviation sector’s carbon footprint. The South Korean company, which has SAF production capabilities in South Korea, expressed strong interest in collaborating on this project, enhancing energy security and reducing emissions.

Indonesia and South Korea are positioning themselves as leaders in the global fight against climate change and the advancement of the green economy. These collaborations are expected to deliver technological advancements and pave the way for a sustainable, low-carbon future.

As Indonesia continues its green transition, strategic partnerships, particularly in clean energy and EV technology, will be crucial in achieving its sustainability targets. Continued collaboration will be essential for long-term environmental and economic benefits.