The crisis that has affected New Caledonia since the start of the riots also concerns the nickel sector. The three industrialists are each in a different situation, but activity is almost zero on the mines and in the factories.
There were already blockages, damage, strikes, and tensions in the nickel sector before May 13, particularly around the nickel pact negotiated in Paris, but the situation has gotten even worse since the start of the riots.
At the SLN, all mining centers have been blocked for more than 15 days. Several sites were victims of abuses, looting and destruction, in Thio and Kouaoua in particular. No loading of ore on boats, but discussions are reportedly underway on this subject. In fact, ore stocks have reached a critical level.
At the Doniambo factory, teams are trying to save the industrial equipment and keep the ovens at temperature to avoid a fatal extinction. The SLN inter-union had already launched an SOS on this subject when Emmanuel Macron arrived.
In the south, at Prony Resources, activities at the mine and at the factory have been stopped for a week. With a minimum workforce on site because road access is blocked. Priority is given to staff safety, around 300 people secure the facilities.
Finally little change in the north for Koniambo Nickel. The Vavouto factory has been on standby since February. Only essential personnel work on site, i.e. around a hundred employees out of the usual 1,300. The activity is focused on the integrity of the ovens, maintenance and cleaning. No blocking or damage.
Furthermore, the shareholders are continuing their search for a buyer. Some potential candidates have reportedly shown signs of interest in the complex, despite the current situation.
