Chinese Investment Boosts Economic Growth in Southwest Papua with New Nickel Smelter and Steel Plant

The Southwest Papua Provincial Government has expressed strong support for a Chinese investor's plan to establish a nickel smelter and steel plant in the Sorong Special Economic Zone (SEZ), heralding a significant boost for the region's economic development. This initiative aims to optimize the potential of the Sorong SEZ, aligning with the central government's objectives to foster economic growth in Papua.

George Yarangga, the Governor's expert staff for economy, finance, and development, conveyed the local government's enthusiasm for welcoming the investment from China. "The presence of investors from China is very much supported, as it is crucial for achieving the development targets set for the Sorong SEZ," he stated.

This development comes as the Acting Governor of Southwest Papua, Muhammad Musa'ad, focuses on leveraging the Sorong SEZ to spur regional economic expansion. A limited meeting between the Southwest Papua Government, Sorong District Government, and Sheng Wei New Energy Technology was held in Sorong City to lay the groundwork for the smelter's construction.

Yarangga highlighted the collaborative efforts of the provincial and local governments in facilitating the smelter project, emphasizing the need for government intervention to overcome any investment-related challenges efficiently. "Our goal is to ensure that the investment process for this smelter plant progresses smoothly," he remarked.

PT Sheng Wei New Energy Technology's Director, Ru Guo Sheng, expressed gratitude for the positive reception of the company's investment intentions. He underscored the importance of adhering to green economy principles throughout the investment process, ensuring that the project advances as planned.