The Indonesian Tin Exporters Association (AETI) revealed that tin smuggling in Indonesia has become rampant. One example is the smuggling of Indonesian tin to Malaysia, valued at around IDR 45–47 trillion.

AETI Chairman, Harwendro Adityo Dewanto, stated that the tin smuggled from Indonesia to Malaysia is estimated to reach 12,000 tons per year. This information was obtained directly from industry partners in Malaysia.

In various international forums, Malaysia has acknowledged receiving tin supplies from Indonesia at a rate of approximately 1,000 tons per month.

“Malaysia itself confirmed to us that they receive tin ore supply from Indonesia at around one thousand tons per month. In equivalent terms, that is roughly 12,000 tons per year. Converted into ingots, the value is approximately IDR 45–47 trillion at current tin prices,” Harwendro explained to CNBC Indonesia on the Mining Zone program, quoted Friday (Oct 3, 2025).

Besides causing losses to the state revenue, illegal activities in the tin sector also have a direct impact on the domestic tin industry. Many legitimate exporters feel disadvantaged as they must compete unfairly against smuggled products.

According to AETI’s records, smuggling intensity has increased since early 2025. These illegal activities are conducted systematically, structurally, and covertly, so that even legitimate business actors are unaware of these extensive smuggling networks.

“They operate systematically, structurally, and secretly, so none of us are aware these practices are taking place,” he added.

Nevertheless, the issue of illegal tin activities has drawn the attention of President Prabowo Subianto, which also coincides with a positive effect on domestic tin production.

“The current effect is very positive. Tin production in Indonesia has significantly increased. Despite PT Timah’s performance declining, overall production remains strong,” he stated.

Previously, President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the widespread smuggling of illegal tin mining products from Bangka Belitung to foreign countries.

According to him, nearly 80% of tin from Bangka Belitung has been smuggled through various channels.

“Almost 80% of tin is smuggled using various methods—some by ships, some by ferries. Currently, exits are blocked; even small boats cannot leave,” Prabowo said, quoted Tuesday (Sept 30, 2025).

He views this situation as systemic plundering resulting from the negligence of elites, depleting the nation’s wealth.

In Bangka Belitung, known as one of the world’s leading tin mining centers, approximately 1,000 illegal mines operate, according to Prabowo.

Therefore, Prabowo has ordered strict measures and asked the Indonesian military (TNI), police, and Customs to conduct large-scale operations.

“Since September 1, I have instructed the TNI-Police and Customs to carry out major operations in Bangka Belitung to shut down illegal mines, as nearly 80% of tin was being smuggled,” he said.

Besides tin, the President also highlighted other illegal mines such as nickel, coal, and bauxite.

“Almost all large-scale mining has massive illegal operations. I have ordered that illegal mines be immediately regulated, cleaned up, or taken over by the state. If implemented, insya Allah, state revenue will increase, leaks will be closed, and the nation will gain prosperity,” Prabowo emphasized.