Integrated nickel processing technology company, Harita Nickel, is actively working towards obtaining certification from the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) as part of its strategy to enhance its product marketability in Europe.
Roy Arman Arfandy, CEO of Harita Nickel, highlighted the importance of IRMA’s reputable certification, which verifies the entire mining process from start to finish, during the Sustainability Action for the Future Economy (SAFE) 2024 event hosted by Katadata, on Thursday, August 8, 2024.
Roy emphasized that achieving IRMA certification would help bolster the confidence of Western buyers in Harita’s nickel products.
“This certification allows them to trace the origin of the raw materials and ensures that the processing is done properly,” Roy explained.
The push for certification is part of Harita Nickel’s broader effort to expand its market share in Europe and to counter the negative perception of Indonesian nickel, often labeled as “dirty nickel” by Western countries.
“IRMA certification is a testament to Harita’s strong commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and the responsible impact of its mining operations,” Roy said.
He also mentioned that Harita’s mining concession on Obi Island undergoes annual audits by various parties to review its mining practices.
“With IRMA certification, these auditors will feel more comfortable knowing that our processes are certified by a reputable international organization,” Roy added.
The certification is particularly crucial as European nickel buyers are increasingly focused on ESG practices.
Roy reported that Harita Nickel, which is based in Obi Island, South Halmahera, North Maluku, has already commenced shipments to Europe, with buyers recognizing the company’s adherence to proper ESG standards that are in line with, or even approaching, international benchmarks.
However, Roy acknowledged the challenges in meeting the stringent and costly standards set by Europe.
“We were audited with 600 questions, covering everything from operational practices to how we interact with and improve the social welfare of the local community. They examine the entire process from end to end,” he noted.
This effort underscores Harita Nickel’s dedication to responsible mining practices as it seeks to strengthen its foothold in the European market.
