Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia emphasized that the government is open to investment from United States (US) businesses, particularly in the development of critical minerals in Indonesia.

According to Bahlil, Indonesia adheres to a free and active foreign policy principle and applies a similar free and active approach in its investment cooperation framework. This means Indonesia provides equal opportunities to all countries to invest in strategic sectors.

“This means we are offering the same opportunity to all nations, including the United States and other countries that wish to invest in Indonesia, especially in critical minerals,” Bahlil said during a virtual press conference, as quoted on Monday (February 23, 2026).

He noted that such investment cooperation had already been taking place even before the latest agreement with the US. For example, Freeport has obtained concessions in accordance with prevailing regulations and has built a copper smelter facility with an investment value of nearly US$4 billion.

In the context of developing critical minerals such as nickel, rare earth elements (REE), and other strategic commodities, the government has agreed to facilitate US entrepreneurs interested in investing in Indonesia.

“We have agreed to provide facilitation for business players from the United States who wish to invest, while still respecting the regulations that apply within our country,” Bahlil stated.

He further explained that regarding the allocation of mining areas, the government will offer several prospective sites to US companies interested in entering the sector and will assist the process in accordance with the applicable mechanisms.

“I have also conducted mapping of prospective locations, as we must continue to build and maintain the strong relationship that has already been established,” he added.