New Caledonia: European Visit Revives Debate on Nickel and Its Stakes

European Commissioner Stéphane Séjourné is set to sign a protocol with New Caledonia during his visit from October 16 to 20, renewing the debate over the future of Caledonian nickel. The archipelago's three metallurgical plants, including SLN and Prony Resources, are in financial trouble and rely heavily on public funding. In the North, Koniambo Nickel SAS is seeking a partner to replace Glencore, with Chinese groups among the candidates, while President Macron reportedly opposed foreign capitalist interests. The French government increased its stake in Eramet, becoming its largest shareholder without exceeding 50%.