The visit of European Commission Executive Vice-President Stéphane Séjourné to New Caledonia aims to establish a partnership regarding raw materials, reigniting discussions about the future of the territory’s nickel industry. The planned October 16-20 visit will conclude with a protocol agreement, though currently lacking specific financial commitments or industrial projects. New Caledonia’s three metallurgical plants are facing significant difficulties and require new capital, with Prony Resources currently seeking a new owner after a failed deal with a Emirati consortium and relying on substantial public loans. Société Le Nickel (SLN) is also heavily reliant on state funding, while its parent company, Eramet, has ceased funding its losses. The French state recently increased its stake in Eramet, potentially influencing its approach to SLN, and Koniambo Nickel SAS is seeking a replacement for Glencore, attracting interest from Chinese groups with independentist deputy Emmanuel Tjibaou stating President Macron expressed opposition to Chinese investment.