Ramu NiCo Management (MCC) Limited has joined the rest of Papua New Guinea in marking the country’s historic 50th Independence Anniversary, reflecting on its own contributions to national progress and reaffirming its long-term commitment to PNG’s economic and industrial development.
As the single largest Chinese investment in the Pacific region, Ramu NiCo has invested more than US $1.2 billion into its world-class nickel-cobalt operations in Madang Province. Since production began in 2012, the project has grown into a vital contributor to the global mineral market and the PNG economy.
“In 2023 alone, Ramu NiCo produced over 33,600 tonnes of nickel and more than 3,000 tonnes of cobalt, supplying nearly 1% of global nickel and 1.3% of cobalt,” the company said in a media statement issued to commemorate the Golden Jubilee.
The company also highlighted its positive impact at the community level, including the creation of over 3,000 jobs for Papua New Guineans since 2006. Beyond employment, Ramu NiCo has invested in roads, clinics, schools, and small-business support in host communities. Its partnership with the PNG Cocoa Board in Madang Province on cocoa development was cited as an example of sustainable agricultural collaboration.
“We honour the trust placed in us and the shared journey we continue to forge with landowners, government, and partners. Our focus remains on fostering broad-based social and economic development,” the company stated.
Ramu NiCo confirmed that it is actively engaged in expansion studies with its joint venture partner, Kumul Mineral Holdings Ltd (KMHL), with plans underway to increase production capacity and extend the life of the mine.
A proposed US $1 billion expansion, currently under review, would potentially double the project’s output while advancing PNG’s long-term ambition of becoming an exporter of refined mineral products. Plans include downstream processing at the Basamuk refinery, representing a key step toward industrial diversification and value addition within PNG’s borders.
“Our ongoing collaboration with KMHL is a landmark step in realising PNG’s aspirations for downstream production, high-value employment, and a resilient export economy,” Ramu NiCo stated.
Ramu NiCo offered a message of unity and forward-looking optimism to mark the country’s milestone.
“As the nation reflects on five decades of independence, Ramu NiCo reaffirms its unwavering commitment to Papua New Guinea’s future: sustaining responsible, world-class nickel and cobalt production, driving economic opportunity through local partnership, and building a more diversified and resilient national economy,” the statement concluded.