A report released on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, reveals a rise in alleged human rights and environmental abuses connected to China's critical minerals supply chains, with Indonesia recording more cases than any other country. This increase is attributed to Indonesia's booming nickel sector, particularly in regions like Morowali, Central Sulawesi province.

The report, cited by Nikkei Asia from Bangkok, points to Indonesia surpassing countries such as Congo and Myanmar in the number of allegations linked to critical mineral extraction and processing. The nickel boom in Indonesia has been blamed for contributing to these issues, raising concerns about the social and environmental impacts of the industry.

Workers in nickel mining and processing hubs in Indonesia are at the center of these allegations, which reflect broader challenges in the global supply chains for critical minerals essential to various technologies.

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