The Philippine nickel industry is seen a play a larger role in global critical mineral supply.
The Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) reported that the Philippine nickel sector is poised to play a larger role in global critical minerals supply chains as demand rises and geopolitical risks reshape sourcing strategies for key resources. This was their message during the PNIA's Industry Outlook Media RTD on March 26, 2026 at Seda Hotel, Bonifacio Global City. The event was sponsored by British Embassy Manila.
“The Philippines remains a major player in the global nickel market, with PNIA members accounting for around 73% of national output and total production reaching 37.81 million dry metric tons in 2025,” said Charmaine Olea-Capili, Executive Director of PNIA.
According to the International Energy Agency, as the drive for transition to low-carbon energy systems is rising, the demand for nickel and other critical minerals (used in EVs and RE and infrastructure) is expected to grow significantly in the next decades.
[26 March 2026] Philippine Nickel Industry Outlook - Media Briefing at Seda Hotel BGC with panelists: (L-R) Mr. Tulsidas C. Reyes, Board Director, PNIA | Atty. Dante R. Bravo, President, PNIA | Martin Antonio G. Zamora, Board Director, PNIA
Philippines’ Critical Role in the Global Nickel Market
PNIA reports that the Philippines is in the 6th global rank in nickel reserves and remains a key supplier to international markets.
In 2025, PNIA members produced 25.9 million DMT out of the industry’s total 37.81 million DMT.
Also in 2025, China was the top export market of the Philippines, contributing to 66% of exports. The percentage was much higher in 2024 with 78%, as Indonesia increased imports from the Philippines.
“These shifts reflect the growing strategic value of Philippine nickel as countries diversify sources of critical minerals,” Olea-Capili noted.
Outlook: Opportunities and Market Pressures
As industrial demand and energy transition supports the global nickel industry, positioning it for long-term growth.
Several factors contribute to opportunities, such as: sustained demand from emerging economies, increasing interest in supply chain diversification, and continued investment in processing capacity.
However, there are challenges, namely: the industry faces near-term pressures, including a potential market surplus, evolving battery technologies, and slower-than-expected electric vehicle adoption in some markets.
Another recent challenge is the geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East. The ongoing conflict and unpredictable turn of events at the Strait of Hormuz are affecting the global shipping routes and increasing logistics and fuel costs. These factors all together may have a striking impact on the mineral supply chain.
Strengthening Investment Conditions
Since the enactment of the Republic Act No. 12253, clearer fiscal regime for mining emerged. This movement is expected to reduce regulatory uncertainty, which supports long-term investments. This is one of the important policy reforms that are currently shaping the investment environment in the Philippines, as foreign investments in the mining industry now look promising.
These developments are reinforcing investor confidence and supporting the sector’s long-term growth and competitiveness.
However, PNIA also cited the need to strengthen geological data, infrastructure and energy readiness, and policy alignment to support a more competitive and investment-ready mining sector.
Advancing Responsible Mining and Strategic Partnerships
PNIA continues to advance responsible mining through ESG-aligned practices and strategic regional collaboration, reinforcing the industry’s role in sustainable development and global supply chains.
PNIA reported that in 2024, their members invested PHP122 million in education, supporting 24,400 scholars and building 300 learning facilities. An additional PHP289 million was set aside for social development and livelihood programs.
For that year, there are over 460 infrastructure projects that were completed to support more resilient communities. PNIA has also implemented Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programs (EPEP), with over 35 million trees planted to date.
Moreover, in order to strengthen regional cooperation, PNIA established initiatives such as the IndoPhil Nickel Corridor. This initiative aligns the Philippines and Indonesia in building more integrated, resilient, and sustainable critical mineral supply chains. Both the Philippines and Indonesia are top global nickel producers.
“These efforts reflect how the Philippine nickel industry is aligning responsible mining with global supply chain requirements,” said Olea-Capili. “Strengthening both ESG performance and regional collaboration will be key to sustaining long-term industry growth and competitiveness.”
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About PNIA
The Philippine Nickel Industry Association is the unified industry voice of the Philippine nickel sector, representing member companies that account for approximately 74 percent of national nickel production. Established in 2012, PNIA plays a central role in shaping industry direction, policy engagement, and stakeholder dialogue on the responsible development of one of the country’s most strategically important resource sectors. The association works closely with government, industry, communities, and international partners to advance a globally competitive, investment ready, and responsibly governed nickel industry. Through its Nickel Initiative platform, PNIA convenes dialogue and supports alignment with sustainability and transparency frameworks relevant to regulators, investors, and global markets. PNIA is a non-stock, non-profit association registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and more information is available at www.philippinenickel.org.
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Reference:
[1] (March 26, 2026) Olea-Capili, Charmaine. "PNIA 2025 Report and 2026 Nickel Industry Outlook". PNIA Media Briefing Presentation.
Photo credit: Marcelle P. Villegas
