New Caledonia nickel industry at standstill amid unrest

New Caledonia’s nickel processing industry remains at a virtual standstill after weeks of unrest in the southern Pacific territory, with Eramet-owned SLN keeping its smelter at minimum capacity and Prony Resources halting its plant.

SLN has managed to transport some ore to its Doniambo plant to keep the furnaces running at the minimum technically necessary, but “the situation remains critical”, an Eramet spokesperson said. With mining still suspended at SLN, the company has transported ore stocks by ship from some of its mines, the spokesperson said.

KNS had already stopped its mine and plant operations in March for a six-month period after operator co-owner Glencore decided to seek a buyer for its stake.

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