PT. Inco mulls new projects expansion

South Sulawesi nickel miner PT. Inco had commenced drilling at its Bahudopi prospect for pre-feasibility study with the aim to develop 50,000 tonne-per year ferronickel operations in the area, an executive from parent company said last week.

Metallurgical testing starts in 2006 as part of pre-feasibility work for a 50,000 tonne-per-year ferronickel operation, said Inco Limited CEO Peter Jones in a presentation last week.

He did not give detail when the PFS is expected to be completed.

Meanwhile, he also mention potential to develop 40,000-50,000 tonnes of nickel per year hydromet plant in Pomalaa and the possibility to develop single-line acid plant in Sorowako with the potential annual output of 16,000-to-18, 000 tonnes of nickel.

?Obviously, the startup of any of these projects will depend on our market view, a stable business climate in Indonesia and the results of feasibility work,? he said.

Inco limited currently holds 61 percent shares in PT. Inco. (alex)