China's GEM Partners With EcoPro and Indonesian Miners to Build World’s Most Competitive Lithium Battery Supply Chain

GEM Co.

International Green Industrial Park in Indonesia to Anchor Strategic Battery Materials Hub

GEM Co., China’s top supplier of battery raw materials and a leader in battery recycling, will build a fully integrated lithium battery materials supply chain in Indonesia. This ambitious project is in partnership with South Korea’s EcoPro BM and several Indonesian miners.

GEM and EcoPro signed an agreement on April 9 to jointly develop the International Green Industrial Park in Morowali Regency, Central Sulawesi—Indonesia’s key nickel mining region. The park will cover the entire supply chain for ternary lithium battery materials, from nickel ore processing to the production of precursors and cathode materials.

The collaboration aims to reduce international trade risks and increase global competitiveness. The park is expected to become the most cost-efficient base for battery materials in the world.

GEM and EcoPro to Drive Technology and Investment

GEM will contribute advanced upstream nickel processing and precursor material technologies. EcoPro will provide cathode production technology and lead investor engagement efforts, particularly in attracting global battery customers and Korean investors.

A joint venture company will be formed, with EcoPro’s stake not exceeding 20%. The partners will also seek local collaborators, such as PT Vale, to secure nickel resources and navigate Indonesian permitting processes.

Strategic Projects and Expansion Plans

The deal builds on earlier collaborations. In January, GEM and EcoPro announced plans to build a joint-venture cathode plant in Indonesia. In November, EcoPro also expressed interest in GEM’s nickel processing project with PT Vale.

With support from local partners and advanced technologies from China and Korea, this new industrial park signals a powerful pivot toward Southeast Asia for battery supply chains.

GEM’s Market Performance Amid Tariff Pressure

GEM’s stock [SHE: 002340] closed at CNY6.02 today, unchanged but near a six-month low. The dip follows market uncertainty tied to the latest round of Trump-era tariff policies affecting Chinese exports.