Video: PTBA's Strategy to Pursue Business "Beyond Coal" - Testing EV Vehicles

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – The President Director of PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA), Bambang Ismawan, is optimistic that in 2026 PTBA can achieve its annual production target of 48 million tonnes whilst simultaneously fulfilling its Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) to supply 50% of PTBA’s total production to the domestic market.

At present, the supply of high-calorie coal continues to decline, leaving only medium- and low-calorie coal production. However, with global demand for medium-calorie coal remaining high amid turmoil in the Middle East, both demand and prices for the coal commodity remain reasonably strong.

Meanwhile, to ensure business continuity, PTBA continues to drive downstream coal projects in 2026 through coal gasification into dimethyl ether (DME), which could replace the role of LPG. Plant construction for the coal gasification project is targeted to begin in 2027.

In addition, PTBA is also pushing business expansion beyond coal. By the end of 2026, PTBA is targeting to achieve its production target whilst reducing dependence on fuel through the transition to electric mining vehicles.

What is PTBA’s strategy for sustaining its coal business? For the full discussion, watch Mercy Widjaja’s interview with the President Director of PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA), Bambang Ismawan, on Closing Bell, CNBC Indonesia (Friday, 04/09/2026).