Accelerating Downstreaming: Changes Occurring in the Mineral and Coal Industries
The downstreaming of minerals and coal is altering the information requirements of industry players regarding commodities. As the process from production to processing and trading becomes more extensive, more stages require data concerning the quality, quantity, and movement of commodities.
This shift was a key topic of discussion at Coaltrans Asia 2026 and the International Critical Minerals and Metals Summit (ICMMS) Indonesia 2026, held in Bali from 27–30 September 2026. The forum brought together stakeholders from mining, processing, trading, manufacturing, finance, government, and strategic partners. Key issues discussed included supply chain developments, downstreaming, pricing, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, and the strengthening of the mineral and coal commodity ecosystem.
The need for quality and quantity information arises at various stages, from production, management, and trading to the final use of commodities. This requirement also encompasses monitoring commodity movement and handling, due diligence, and export verification.
In response to these developments, PT Surveyor Indonesia (PTSI) participated in the forum, presenting its independent assurance services for the mineral and coal industries. These services include monitoring commodity movement and handling, ensuring quality and quantity, as well as providing due diligence and export verification.
PTSI is also utilising technology in its inspection and testing activities. One such technology is ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry), which can detect trace amounts of metallic elements to assist in obtaining detailed commodity characteristics. Another technology is the Laser Scanner, which can measure and map objects or areas in three dimensions with millimetre-level precision, supporting stocktaking and field condition assessments.
“The development of the mineral and coal industries presents increasingly diverse needs, including the requirement for reliable information regarding the quality and quantity of commodities,” said Helmy Satria Yudha, VP of the Strategic Business Division for Coal and Mineral at PT Surveyor Indonesia.
“Through our involvement in Coaltrans Asia and ICMMS 2026, we aim to create a space to understand industry needs while introducing our assurance capabilities,” he explained.
PTSI currently operates 23 laboratories supporting the testing of coal, minerals, environment, lubricants, and other related commodities. The company also maintains 18 operational points for mineral and coal activities, covering loading and unloading surveying for coal and nickel ore, as well as export verification for ferro-nickel.