Indonesia’s wealth in natural resources continues to make headlines. The latest report from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), released in January 2025, officially places Indonesia as the world’s fourth-largest holder of gold reserves. This is a recognition that cements its global mining significance.
According to the Mineral Commodity Summaries report, Indonesia’s total gold reserves reach 3,600 metric tons. This figure places the nation just below the three leading countries: Australia and Russia, which each boast 12,000 metric tons, and South Africa with 5,000 metric tons. Following Indonesia, Canada ranks fifth with 3,200 metric tons. Altogether, the world’s total gold reserves are estimated at 64,000 metric tons.
Beyond its impressive reserves, Indonesia also stands among the top ten gold-producing countries in the world. In 2023, its annual output reached 100 metric tons. China holds the top spot in production with 375 metric tons that same year, followed by Russia with 313 metric tons and Australia with 296 metric tons. Globally, total gold production in 2023 reached around 3,250 metric tons.
Within Indonesia, the heart of this golden wealth lies in Mimika Regency, Central Papua. The region is home to the renowned Grasberg Mine, one of the world’s largest gold deposits. Operated by Freeport Indonesia, the mine’s ownership is divided between Freeport-McMoRan of the United States, holding 48.74%, and the Indonesian government, which controls 51.23%.
Grasberg’s reserves are estimated at approximately 46 million ounces of gold. In 2023 alone, Freeport produced 1.9 million ounces of gold and 1.6 billion pounds of copper. This makes the site one of Indonesia’s most strategic mining assets, contributing significantly to national output.
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Mimika’s mining potential does not stop there. The area also hosts the Deep Mill Level Zone (DMLZ) mine, another major deposit under the same operator. DMLZ contains an estimated 77 million tons of verified minerals and 305 million tons of additional mineralized materials. The deposits consist of a rich blend of gold, silver, and copper, reinforcing Mimika’s position as Indonesia’s mining powerhouse.
From Papua’s depths to the global stage, Indonesia’s growing presence in the gold industry highlights both its natural abundance and strategic importance in the global mining landscape.
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