印尼甩卖，中国狂收：10万吨“战争金属”入仓，够造半年导弹

Core Insights - China's nickel imports surged significantly, with an average of 516 tons of pure nickel arriving daily in the first five months of 2025, marking a 100.6% year-on-year increase and reaching a six-year high of 77,654 tons [1] - Global nickel prices have plummeted, with the London Metal Exchange price dropping to below $17,000 per ton, a 40% decline from the 2023 peak, attributed to Indonesia's massive production increase [2] - Indonesia's strategic missteps in nickel production have led to a price collapse, as the country lacks core technology despite holding significant reserves [2][5] - China's strategic reserve accumulation is evident, as its nickel consumption growth of 4.9% contrasts sharply with a tenfold increase in imports, indicating a focus on national strategic reserves [2] Industry Developments - Indonesia's nickel production is projected to exceed 2.3 million tons in 2025, capturing 63% of global supply, which has contributed to the price drop [2] - The U.S. Department of Defense has acknowledged the growing capabilities of the Chinese military, with nickel reserves being crucial for military applications, including shipbuilding and missile production [5] - China's response to Indonesia's attempts to pivot towards the U.S. included imposing a 43% tariff on Indonesian stainless steel, which significantly impacts Indonesia's economy [7] - China's resource strategy extends beyond nickel, with investments in cobalt and lithium, and the establishment of supply chains through initiatives like the Belt and Road [9][12] Strategic Implications - The rapid accumulation of nickel reserves by China is part of a broader strategy to secure critical resources, as evidenced by the construction of underground storage facilities [12] - The geopolitical landscape is shifting, with China leveraging its resource capabilities while Western nations scramble to localize their supply chains [10] - Historical lessons from past resource crises are influencing current strategies, as China aims to avoid reliance on foreign supplies by building a robust domestic resource base [12]