This research examines the competitiveness of Indonesian finished nickel products in the international
market, with a particular focus on the impact of government policies and market dynamics. Indonesia,
possessing vast nickel reserves, has traditionally exported raw nickel ores, limiting its value-added
potential. In 2020, the Indonesian government enforced a comprehensive export ban on raw nickel ores
(HS 260400) to promote domestic processing and increase the production of refined nickel products
(HS 7501). This study evaluates the effectiveness of this policy in transforming Indonesia’s position in
the global nickel market, using indicators such as the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA),
Dynamic RCA (DRCA), and Revealed Symmetric Comparative Advantage (RSCA). The research
applies Porter’s Diamond Model to analyse the factors influencing competitiveness, including factor
conditions, demand conditions, related industries, and firm strategy. It utilizes econometric analysis to
assess the relationship between domestic nickel production, global nickel prices, smelter capacity, and
the battery market's growth. Findings indicate a significant increase in Indonesia’s competitiveness in
refined nickel exports post-export ban, driven by a combination of increased smelting capacity, foreign
investment, and growing demand from the electric vehicle (EV) industry. The study concludes that
while Indonesia has made substantial progress in shifting from raw nickel exports to high-value refined
products, challenges remain in ensuring the efficiency and sustainability of smelting operations. Policy
recommendations include enhancing regulatory effectiveness, optimizing smelter development
strategies, and capitalizing on global trends in battery manufacturing. The results of this study provide
valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and stakeholders in the nickel industry, emphasizing the
importance of strategic planning to maintain long-term competitiveness.