Southern Province New Caledonia GUIDE TO BUSINESS 2025
1. NEW CALEDONIA IN BRIEF 5 New Caledonia, a French territory in the heart of the South Pacific 5 Key figures 6 Economy 6 Political organisation 7 Foreign trade 8 2. THE SOUTHERN PROVINCE: A BUSINESS DESTINATION IN NEW CALEDONIA 9 In a few figures, the Southern Province is... 9 10 good reasons to invest in the Southern Province 10 Investor Relations Office 14 3. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 15 Responsible agriculture and the agri-food industry 15 Promoting biodiversity and natural substances 17 Digital technology - Innovation - Research & development 20 Green economy / Circular economy / Social economy 23 Tourism 25 Sea economy 29 Trade 32 Nickel - Construction 33 Processing industry 35 Health 37 4. BUSINESS PARKS 42 5. INVESTMENT FINANCING SCHEMES 50 Tax exemption 50 Aid from the Southern Province 53 6. SECTOR-SPECIFIC PLAYERS AND PARTNERS 64 Public players 64 Economic players 67 Financial players 72 CONTENTS 2
7. REGULATORY CONTEXT 75 CONTENTS Economic and commercial regulations Land and property regulations 8. TAX ENVIRONMENT Business tax obligations Business taxes Special cases 9. SETTING UP A BUSINESS: INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE From creation... ...to launching... ...to monitoring activity... ...to overcoming difficulties 10. EMPLOYMENT, TRAINING, TALENTS, SKILLS, VAE Professional conditions Training and skills 11. FOREIGN INVESTORS: RESIDENCE AND WORKING CONDITIONS Conditions for entry and residence Conditions for carrying out a professional activity Settling in New Caledonia 12. FAQ page 13. DIRECTORY OF USEFUL CONTACTS Institutions Banks Consular chambers Clusters Parapublic bodies Professional organisations Company creation formalities 14. GLOSSARY 75 81 84 84 85 90 91 92 95 96 97 99 99 100 102 102 103 104 107 109 109 109 110 110 110 111 112 113 3
EDITORIAL Philippe Blaise is a Caledonian who graduated from the HEC business school of Paris and has worked in the private sector, in trade, and in the banking sector. He entered the Caledonian political life as a city council- lor in 2008; since then, he has been elected as a Con- gress member and the First Vice-President of the Southern Province, in charge of the economic devel- opment, finances, housing, environment, and rural de- velopment. "The Southern Province is brimming with economic potential, which is why the Executive has initiated the Southern Province Investor Relations Office project, to contribute to economic recovery by boosting investment which creates added value and employment. The aim is to create an ecosystem conducive to investment and the development of new activities, within which the Investor Relations Office has an operational role of welcoming, guiding and supporting investors. Its mission is also to put investors in touch with local public and private players. Philippe BLAISE - First Vice-President of the Southern Province As part of the continuing development of this Office, which is a genuine facilitator dedicated to local and foreign investors, this Guide to Business is offered to all investors wishing to settle in New Caledonia or simply to gain a better understanding of the business opportunities, the various contacts, the regulations, etc. A tool for those who dare to undertake business, this guide is an essential preamble to a good understanding of New Caledonia’s economic fabric and an essential complement to the work of the Investor Relations Office. 4
France in Indo-Pacific 1 NEW CALEDONIA IN BRIEF NEW CALEDONIA, A FRENCH TERRITORY IN THE HEART OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC New Caledonia, France's largest island, is located 17,000 km from mainland France in the South Pacific Ocean, between Australia and New Zealand. It is made up of the Mainland and a group of islands. It enjoys extensive political and economic autonomy. As such, it benefits from the support of France, a strong guarantee in terms of stability, particularly monetary stability, while at the same time being able to plan its economic development independently. Located at the centre of a dynamic regional area, in the heart of the Indo-Pacific axis, its dual French and Oceanian identity offers a modern framework and a range of facilities for the development of projects. France, via its overseas territories in the Pacific (French Polynesia, Wallis and Futuna and New Caledonia), remains the only European Union representative in the region. The French President's ambition is to anchor France in the Indo-Pacific region, which is home to 60% of the world's population and 1/3 of international trade. France and security in the Indo-Pacific zone Indo-Pacific foreign direct investment stock in France (2017) - €35bn French foreign direct investment stock in the Indopacific (2017) - €108bn 5
1,000 billion 8.3 billion (source: https://choosenewcaledonia.nc/leconomie/chiffres-cles) ECONOMY 3.7 MF.XPF / €31 K KEY FIGURES... (source ISEE : https://www.isee.nc ) 1 - NEW CALEDONIA IN BRIEF 6
POLITICAL ORGANISATION New Caledonia is a French overseas collectivity with a special status, which includes the gradual transfer to New Caledonia of certain State powers. Represented by the High Commissioner of the Republic, the French State retains jurisdiction in sovereign areas such as public order and defence, justice, currency, and credit. New Caledonia enjoys a high degree of autonomy from mainland France and has a collegiate Government that implements the policies of Congress, particularly in the areas of taxation, economic and social regulations, foreign trade and customs, regional planning and energy. Reporting to the government, two consultative bodies issue opinions to the various institutions: the Customary Senate, which represents the eight customary areas of the territory and is the guardian of Kanak identity, and the Conseil Économique, Social et Environnemental (CESE), which represents civil society. Each of the 3 provinces (Loyalty Islands, Northern and Southern) has its own deliberative assembly and executive, competent regarding the environment, economic and tourism development, youth and sport, culture and heritage, employment and inclusion, urban planning and land. The 33 communes of the territory are responsible for civil status, housing, schools and the municipal police. (image source: http://www.mncparis.fr/uploads/Institutions%20de%20la%20Nouvelle-Caledonie.pdf) 7
FOREIGN TRADE Compared with regional economies, Pacific island economies and other French overseas departments and collectivities, New Caledonia has an atypical export profile, due in particular to the importance of the nickel sector in the economy. Exports - 1.8 billion € (220bn XPF) of goods exported in 2021, ¼ of GDP - Exports largely dependent on nickel (90%) - Over 80% of exports go to Asian markets Imports - High dependency on imports, with a coverage rate of 60%. - Protection of the local market imposing quantitative restrictions and import taxes on certain products (source: https://choosenewcaledonia.nc/leconomie/chiffres-cles) 1 - NEW CALEDONIA IN BRIEF 8
THE SOUTHERN PROVINCE: A BUSINESS DESTINATION IN NEW CALEDONIA The Southern Province covers the southern part of the Mainland and the Isle of Pines. Its capital is Noumea, the capital of New Caledonia. Today, it is New Caledonia's largest province in terms of population, but also the most developed. In a few figures, the Southern Province is: 2. 9
10 GOOD REASONS TO INVEST IN THE SOUTHERN PROVINCE In addition to being an island paradise, the Southern Province offers an investment- friendly environment. 1. A province with a unique strategic position - Noumea, New Caledonia’s historical, economic and political capital - Connections with regional and international players - A regional market (Small Island States - SIS, Australia and New Zealand) and a gateway to the French and European markets - A standard of living close to that of the major countries in the zone, with a GDP of 31 K€ (3.7 M XPF)/inhabitant - Administrative and judicial jurisdictions, numerous head offices (banks, insurance companies, major corporations, etc.) based in the Southern Province 3. A young, skilled population - 30% of the population is under 20 - 75% of those aged over 15 are graduates (35% have a baccalauréat and 20% are in higher education) - 70% of primary and secondary schools in the Southern Province - High-quality higher education institutions (university, business, design, health and arts schools, etc.) 2. Legal and monetary stability - A stable and secure business environment thanks to the application of French and European standards - A monetary and banking system governed by French legislation - A currency with a fixed parity to the euro 4. Entrepreneurship - Nearly 40,000 companies - Specific support and funding schemes for start-ups and innovative businesses - Sectors with strong development potential - Support for investment and employment 10
6. An exceptional natural heritage - Exceptional biodiversity protected by the Southern Province Environment Code - A diversity of landscapes, from mining scrub to mangrove swamps, dry and humid forests - A lagoon listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 2008 - The longest continuous coral reef in the world and the 2nd largest after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. - An EEZ of 1.5 million km2 - A 1,600 km barrier reef that marks the boundary of the world's largest lagoon (24,000 km2) - A marine capital with over 350 species of coral and almost 1,600 species of fish - An endemism rate of about 80%, - Nature parks and about sixty protected areas on land and at sea 5. Modern, high-performance public infrastructures - A state-of-the-art telecommunications network, with the deployment of fibre optic and the 4G network - Efficient air transport, with an international airport and two domestic aerodromes - Well-developed maritime infrastructures, with numerous ports: industrial, commercial, mining, fishing and yachting. - Noumea, 2nd French overseas port and 7th French port in terms of tonnage handled (+5 million tonnes/year) - The main health centres in the territory (clinic, rehabilitation centre, regional hospital, etc.) - The main commercial and industrial areas 11
7. An environmentally responsible province - A department dedicated to sustainable development and environmental protection - An Environment Code for respect of rights and duties and protection of local biodiversity - An energy transition plan including an energy saving programme, the development of renewable energies and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. - Regulations and standards for Facilities Classified for the Protection of the Environment (ICPE) - A procedure for authorising the collection and exploitation of natural resources in compliance with the NAGOYA protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing (APA) - An approach to regulating the Social Solidarity Economy (ESS) 8. A cultural and historical heritage - A collection of 8 cultural centres, 7 museums, 3 cinemas and 6 provincial UNESCO World Heritage sites - Nearly 250 sites, monuments and furnishings protected as historical monuments - Archaeological digs on land and underwater - A resource centre with over 2,000 references on art, the architecture and history of New Caledonia - A host of many cultural events and no fewer than 72 dedicated associations - Well-developed socio-educational activities and sports facilities (stadiums, sports halls, activity centres, etc.) 12
10. A dedicated contact at your disposal - Free, personalised support for investors and project lea - Simplified procedures and formalities - Step-by-step support as your projects take shape ders 9. Investment incentives - Support based on investor assistance schemes (tax exemption, subsidies, guarantee funds, tax credits, etc.) - An abundant network of project leaders, economic players and potential investors to encourage exchanges and networking 13
Investor Relations Office Under the Choose NC! umbrella for the Southern Province, it is a tool to support the creation of jobs and added value for the region. Its aim is to attract investors, particularly from abroad, while making it easier for local companies to find financing and to develop their businesses. It also encourages business start-ups and the employment of young Caledonian graduates. Jean – Christophe RAMBAUD Head of Investor Relations Office A native of New Caledonia, Jean - Christophe RAMBAUD has 18 years' experience in financial management, business support and training young Caledonians. With a degree in finance and experience in economic development, he has an excellent knowledge of New Caledonia's economic fabric and its players. "My motivation for carrying out the Investor Relations Office’s missions is to support you in your search for partners and financing, to put you in touch with private and public sector players and to help you carrying out your projects. We have great potential, great projects and talents just waiting to be tapped! 14
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES Our study to identify high-potential economic sectors in the Southern Province highlights 10 major strategic sectors and some possible opportunities by sector (non-exhaustive list). RESPONSIBLE AGRICULTURE AND THE AGRI-FOOD INDUSTRY With an overall coverage rate of about 15% (30% for fresh produce), New Caledonia has great potential to diversify its agriculture and, more specifically, to develop its organic farming (only 2% of the usable agricultural land is currently farmed organically). Large areas of exploitable land, a sunny tropical climate and incentives to cultivate the available land are major advantages for farming and agricultural production. The processing of agricultural products via local agri-food industries and the treatment of organic waste are also priorities. New Caledonia's objective is to achieve 30% coverage by 2025. Key figures 2% of GDP - 30,000 To of crop production in 2020 for 7.6 billion XPF / 63.5 M€. 13% of the 185,000 ha of farmland under cultivation (65% under private law & 23% under customary law) 73% of agricultural production marketed in the Southern Province 60% of Cristal Blue shrimp production exported 18% of industrial companies in the agri-food sector Award-winning honeys at the Paris International Agricultural Show (162 To/year) 300 producers of vanilla (also an award-winner) with an extraordinary vanillin content (2.2% to 5%) 3 15
3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES Opportunities - Developing organic farming and exporting high-quality products: cocoa, vanilla, honey, coffee, pink peppercorn, coconut, cereals, etc. - Diversifying field crops: cereals, oilseeds, vegetable proteins, hemp, etc. - Expanding the range of agricultural products adapted to climatic conditions, edible plants... - Diversifying production methods: agroecology, agroforestry, permaculture, free-range livestock farming, etc. - Promoting unsold produce and organic waste from farming, processing or non-consumption (compost, soil improver, energy, animal feed, etc.) - Explore transformation processes, in particular 3rd and 4th range: frozen products, dried fruit, preserves, soups, juices, etc. Financing Southern Province: DISPPAP / FGPS / PromoSud State / Government: local / national tax exemption, double tax exemption ADEME: ecological and energy transition subsidy CAP-NC: aid for fuel, fertilisers, etc. Players dedicated to the sector Pacific Food Lab and Acotred clusters Chambre d’Agriculture et de la Pêche de Nouvelle-Calédonie (CAP-NC) Agence Rurale (AR) Interprofession des Fruits et Légumes de Nouvelle-Calédonie (IFEL) Repair, Bio Calédonia Fédération des Industries de Nouvelle-Calédonie (FINC) Direction Affaires Vétérinaires, Alimentaires et Rurales (DAVAR) Office de Commercialisation et d'Entreposage Frigorifique (OCEF) 16
3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES PROMOTING BIODIVERSITY AND NATURAL SUBSTANCES Rising to the 3rd position worldwide for its high levels of endemism and hosting the 2nd largest coral reef in the world, New Caledonia is considered to be the 2nd of the world's 34 biodiversity hotspots. New Caledonia's terrestrial plant biodiversity represents: 74% of endemic plant species 3,400 species of flowering plants (medicinal, aromatic, dyeing, ornamental) 4,500 plant extracts in the collection 3,000 years of traditional knowledge 5 research institutes 2,200 ha of plantations and nurseries (columnar pine, Caribbean pine, sandalwood, kaori, etc.) 20 plant resources used (mainly sandalwood and niaouli) The plant resource development sector represents approximately 820 MF.XPF / 6.8 M€. There is great potential in exploiting natural substances such as aromatic, tinctorial and medicinal plants, as well as growing timber and tropical species. In order to preserve this resource, the Southern Province is applying the Nagoya Protocol through an APA (Access and Benefit Sharing) procedure aimed at listing and tracing the harvesting of species in the natural environment, with a return to the territory and the landowner of the revenue generated by its exploitation. 17
3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES New Caledonia's marine biodiversity represents: 1.5 million km2 of Exclusive Economic Zone (ZEE) including the Coral Sea Natural Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) 2nd largest coral reef in the world, home to 20% of the world's biodiversity More than 60 marine protected areas 146 types of reef structure (the most diverse concentration in the world) 20,000 marine species listed 300 bacterial strains and 350 bioactive molecules isolated 44,000 hectares of lakes in the Far South, home to species listed under the Ramsar Convention Today, ongoing research into marine algae (micro- and macro-algae) and their exploitation is bearing fruit, with over 10To of dry micro-algal biomass from a pilot farm. The Southern Province wants to make the preservation of biodiversity an engine for growth and involve local start-ups in the preservation and promotion of biodiversity. 18
3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES Opportunities - Promoting high-quality products: sandalwood, niaouli, tamanu, wood, resin, etc. - Developing biodiversity observation and protection activities - Developing forestry - Structuring economic sectors that promote biodiversity (biotech, biomimetics, etc.) - Exploiting natural substances for medical, cosmetic and agri-food purposes... - Developing tourism related to marine and terrestrial biodiversity Financing Southern Province: DISPPAP / CASE General Economics / FGPS / PromoSud State / Government : Local / national tax exemption, double tax exemption BpiFrance: Tourism loan ADEME: Ecological and energy transition/waste management subsidy Players dedicated to the sector Nativ Cluster (NATIVNC) Université de la Nouvelle-Calédonie (UNC) Institut pour la Rechercher et le Développement (IRD) Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Institut Agronomique néo-Calédonien (IAC) Institut Français de Recherche pour l’Exploitation de la MER (IFREMER) 19
DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY- INNOVATION - RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT Digital Technology While 72% of New Caledonians are equipped with IT tools, the digital sector accounts for just 2.6% of New Caledonia's GDP in 2019. Nowadays, digital technology is fundamental to economic growth, driving modernisation, attractiveness, competitiveness and innovation in any country. It represents strong economic potential in both local and regional markets. The aim of the Southern Province is to develop new digital skills and activities, promote equitable access to digital services, modernise uses and practices and develop digital content. The deployment of a second intelligent submarine cable to Fiji will help meet the growing demand for telecommunications and secure New Caledonia's international connectivity. Key figures 10 Data centres - 210 active companies and 1,850 jobs 14 patents filed since 2014 (2/3 international) 2 undersea optical cables: Noumea-Sydney (Australia) and Noumea-Suva (Fiji) - the aim is to connect all users by 2025 3G and 4G coverage (80% of the country) European funding o FP6 and FP7 (Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development) o COSME Programme (Programme for the Competitiveness of Enterprises and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) 10 research organisations, 550 employees including 400 researchers, engineers and technicians 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 20
Innovation - Research & Development Innovation and research & development (R&D) are key complementary vectors for boosting the region's competitiveness. Spending on R&D is currently less than 1% of New Caledonia's GDP, which is why innovation is a priority for the Southern Province, which has set up a Fonds Sud Innovation seed capital fund and a venture capital scheme specifically for the sector, while supporting the work of organisations that provide support for innovative businesses. The ADECAL Technopole's Innovation Centre incubator/accelerator, which supports over 60 innovative projects, and the recently established French Tech branch, aim to bring together innovative businesses to encourage their growth. New Caledonia is one of the winners of the "Territoires d'innovation" programme, a major State investment plan aimed at developing large-scale innovations to meet the sector's development and structuring ambitions. Opportunities - Developing sectors such as e-commerce, foodtech, e-health, etc. - Creating innovative digital and IT tools - Developing cyber security professions - Betting on biotechnologies 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 21
Financing Southern Province: CASE General Economics / FGPS / PromoSud / Fonds Sud Innovation State / Government: local / national tax exemption, double tax exemption, tax reduction for research and innovation expenditure BpiFrance: Feasibility study subsidy / Innovative project loan / Repayable advance for innovation Players dedicated to the sector Open NC Cluster French Tech NC ADECAL Technopole Innovation Centre Consortium de Coopération pour la Recherche, l’Enseignement Supérieur et l’Innovation en NC (CRESICA) Institut Archéologique de Nouvelle-Calédonie et du Pacifique (IANCP) Aquarium de Nouvelle-Calédonie (AQUARIUM) 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 22
GREEN ECONOMY / CIRCULAR ECONOMY / SOCIAL ECONOMY New Caledonia's green economy represents 3% of New Caledonian businesses and 3,500 jobs. 75% of these relate to land management and environmental protection, with the remainder focusing on waste management and renewable energy. The environment With an exceptional ecosystem and extraordinary natural resources, preserving the environment and protecting natural areas are of paramount importance to the region. The Southern Province is concerned about its environment, which is why it has introduced an Environment Code and created protected areas to preserve its natural heritage. It also applies the regulations relating to Facilities Classified for the Protection of the Environment (ICPE) to limit pollution from industrial and agricultural activities. Eco-construction is also a key concern, both in terms of construction materials and the energy efficiency of buildings. Waste management and recovery 77,000 tonnes of household waste, or 450 kg per inhabitant per year (513 kg in mainland France), were produced in the Greater Noumea conurbation in 2019. Collection and treatment capacities, reuse, recycling and recovery are major challenges for the future. The Provincial Waste Prevention and Management Plan (SPPGD), adopted by the Southern Province in 2018, embodies the will to unite all the stakeholders involved around a shared strategy for responsible and structured waste management. The Southern Province has two projects in this area: - A zone designed for people wishing to set up a temporary, demountable waste storage and recovery business, - An ecopole dedicated to private recycling initiatives. These projects involve the sharing of spaces and facilities as well as dedicated services. 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 23
3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES Renewable energies New Caledonia's energy transition plan (STENC) aims to have 100% renewable energy on the grid by 2030 (excluding the metallurgical industry). As part of its responsibilities, the Southern Province has developed its own plan for the ecological transition of the Southern Province (STEPS) in 3 areas: an exemplary community (eco-mobility, public facilities and heritage), green growth (economic incentives, circular economy and carbon emissions), development & solidarity (low-carbon development and fuel poverty). Key figures 1,500 companies involved in eco-activities - 3,500 jobs 100 companies in the waste management sector Sunshine: 2,000 kWh/m²/year Heliboulouparis - France's largest solar power plant with storage - covers the needs of 21,000 New Caledonians 10 wind farms across the archipelago 115 folding wind turbines to withstand extreme conditions (cyclones, etc.) Opportunities Developing waste prevention, treatment and recovery Developing the circular economy, eco-designed and reusable products Reducing fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions Diversifying renewable energy sources (hydrogen, etc.) Developing activities in line with the "ESS" concept Improving the energy performance of buildings Promoting "green" modes of transport and industrial facilities Players dedicated to the sector - Clusters: ACOTRED, Valorga and Synergie Financing Southern Province: DISPPAP / CASE - General Economics / FGPS / PromoSud State / NC Government: Local/national tax exemption, double tax exemption BpiFrance: Green loan ADEME: Ecological and energy transition subsidy Southern Province / ADEME: waste prevention and management subsidy (COGES) 24
3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES TOURISM In 2019, the tourism sector reached 130,000 tourists and 350,000 cruise passengers, figures that are on the rise thanks to a favourable international economic climate combined with the region's efforts to attract tourists (destination contracts with China and Japan, development of the offering, advertising campaigns, etc.). As part of its tourism, services and leisure development strategy (SDTSL), the aim of the Southern Province is to become an exceptional, must-visit tourist destination in the South Pacific. Air transport The Southern Province has an international airport that is one of the largest hubs in the insular Pacific, with about ten international destinations in the Asia-Pacific region, opening doors to 5 continents. It also has a number of domestic airfields linking the North, South and Loyalty Islands. International and domestic airlines have recently renewed their fleets. Cruises Thanks to its strategic geographical position, New Caledonia has many assets to offer cruisers unmissable ports of call. In the 2019 "Cruise Critic" ranking of the 5 most popular ports of call in the South Pacific, the Isle of Pines is in 2nd position. As for the port of Noumea, it is a systematic stopover in the capital to discover the "French touch" in the heart of the Pacific. The development of its cruise terminal will increase its capacity to accommodate boats of over 350 metres... The creation of a modern, high-performance yachting marina, designed to accommodate large yachts on a permanent basis, is also planned to meet the region's ambition to develop top-of-the-range tourism. 25
3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES Accommodation The Southern Province accounts for 75% of the territory’s accommodation and catering, with a wide range of services, from tribe accommodation to 5-star hotels, lodges and bed and breakfasts. The hotel business has developed strongly, with the establishment of hotel complexes under international brands, enabling the offer to be diversified and increasing capacity. Tourist attractions and activities An island of many facets, New Caledonia offers a diversity of idyllic landscapes, from mining scrub to mangrove swamps, from dry and rainforests to niaouli savannah, from white sand beaches to freshwater springs, from marine reserves to coral reefs... Its natural heritage, cultural diversity and dynamism make it an area where every experience is possible. The Southern Province also offers a diverse range of leisure activities: - Water sports: stand-up paddle, diving, yachting, kite surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, jet skiing, whale watching... - Outdoor sports: horse riding, hiking, mountain biking, canyoning, climbing, paragliding... - Classic activities: golf, tennis, squash, swimming... - Museums and theatres, cinemas, nightclubs and casinos - International events: Francofolies, BlackWoodstock Festival, Pacific Games (2011), international sports competitions, etc. 26
Travelling in New Caledonia New Caledonian residents make around 150,000 trips outside the territory each year. The main destinations are: Australia (33%), France (24%), New Zealand (13%), Vanuatu (11%) and Asia (6%). The Southern Province has opted for sustainable tourism, which provides economic benefits for the local population while promoting its culture and heritage, without damaging its exceptional biodiversity. 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 27
Opportunities - Diversify the tourism offering: business tourism, sports tourism, gastronomy, training, events, medical tourism, eco-tourism, seaside tourism, etc. - Developing domestic tourism - Developing yachting and luxury tourism Financing Southern Province: DISPPAP / CASE General economy / FGPS / Aid for tourism promotional materials / Training for tourism stakeholders State / Government: Local / national tax exemption, double tax exemption BpiFrance: Hotel loan / Tourism loan Players dedicated to the sector GIE Nouvelle-Calédonie Tourisme SPL Sud Tourisme DDET Tourism Department - Southern Province Key figures 32.8 bn XPF - €274M sales revenue 2,500 accommodation units (75% in the Southern Province) 1,150 companies in the hotel and catering sector - 4,500 jobs 2 50 hotels (including 3 5* hotels, 7 4* hotels, 17 3* hotels and 17 2* hotels) Average annual temperature: 25°C Business tourism:10% Sports tourism: numerous water sports centres, nearly 600 km of cycle paths and 400 km of signposted footpaths in the Southern Province Ecological and scientific tourism: 68,700 ha of land reserves and 37,600 ha of marine reserves Cruises: Carnival (85% of calls) and Royal Caribbean Cruises Lines (14% of calls) Average length of stay: 17 days 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 28
SEA ECONOMY With its lagoon classified as a World Heritage Site and its ZEE of 1.5 million km2, New Caledonia is brimming with potential, with sectors to be developed (fishing, aquaculture, fish farming, etc.) and emerging sectors (algae, biotechnologies, deep-sea exploration, etc.). Joint powers between the State (international conventions), New Caledonia (regulation, exploration, exploitation, management and conservation of natural resources in the ZEE) and the Provinces (fishing in inland waters, creation of nature reserves and parks, etc.). Today, New Caledonia's blue economy represents 5% of New Caledonian businesses. Maritime infrastructures Most of maritime infrastructures are concentrated in the Southern Province. The Port of Noumea handles more than 5 million tonnes of freight and ore a year. In terms of volume, it is the largest port in the French overseas territories and one of the top ten in France. The Southern Province aims to develop its infrastructures and become a hub for regional maritime activity. In particular, it is counting on the modernisation of Port Numbo, the region's future centre of maritime excellence. 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 29
Fishing There are almost 470 professional coastal fishermen in New Caledonia. In 2020, total declared production was 837 tonnes of marine products, 60% of which came from the Southern Province. 20% of deep-sea fishing is destined for export, as the local market has few products to offer. With the aim of extending the attractiveness of the sector, the Southern Province wants to develop aquaculture, diversify seafood products and recover most of marine waste while preserving the lagoon. Observation of the seabed The seabed abounds in potential linked to its specific organisms and micro-organisms, whether of animal, plant or mineral origin. The deep seabed offers opportunities for the discovery of unknown organisms, as well as significant interest in mineral resources and rare metals. Observation of the seabed also makes it possible to develop new services, such as environmental monitoring, maritime traffic, pollution management, current analysis, etc. Aquaculture, Fish farming New Caledonia is renowned for the quality of its shrimp, exported in particular to Japan and Europe. This 30-year-old activity now represents 3 hatcheries, 1 packaging unit, 2 feed mills and 18 farms. Annual production is close to 1,500 To (60% exported), representing 80% of production in the French overseas territories. Sea cucumbers are a possible way of diversifying aquaculture farms, with the Asian market in constant demand. Given that 50% of the world's fish is farmed, fish farming offers significant potential for developing the seafood sector. Algae, microalgae, bacteria Collections of strains exist and research teams are working to highlight the properties of each of them in order to identify possible uses. Foreign laboratories are very interested in Caledonian molecules and their properties (medicinal, cosmetic, etc.). Fish waste Several projects are emerging with the aim of recovering this waste for use as fertiliser, oil, animal feed, etc. 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 30
Key figures ZEE: 1.5 million km² 5% of New Caledonian companies - 2% of jobs 7 deep-sea fishing vessels and 455 inshore fishing vessels 2,500 tonnes of pelagic fish caught each year (65% white tuna) - 538 tonnes of lagoon production 2,000 tonnes of blue shrimp (Obsiblue) per year (¾ of seafood exports) Noumea is 1,500 km from the Australian coast and 2,000 km North of New Zealand Regional market: 40 million people Numerous active regional shipping links and a direct link to Europe (28 days) 1st port by volume in the French overseas departments and territories, and among the top 10 in France Opportunities - Diversifying seafood products and exports (scallops, oysters, sea cucumbers, giant clams, etc.) - Developing the processing of fishery and aquaculture products - Developing sea-related tourism - Continuing research on microalgae, algae, venoms and bacteria - Exploiting underwater data - Recovering seafood waste - Developing maritime energy techniques Financing Southern Province: CASE Maritime / CASE General Economics / FGPS / PromoSud / Subsidy for waste prevention and management State / Government: Local / national tax exemption, double tax exemption Players dedicated to the sector Cluster Maritime NC and its Blue Book Direction des Affaires Maritimes (DAM) Direction des Affaires Vétérinaires, Alimentaires et Rurales (DAVAR) Groupement des Fermes Aquacoles (GFA) IFREMER Institut de Recherche et de Développement (IRD) École des Métiers de la Mer (EMM) 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 31
TRADE The trade sector in New Caledonia comprises about 4,000 businesses (80% in the Southern Province) and accounts for 11% of the territory's wealth creation. Noumea city centre offers a wide range of shops, including fashion and accessories, interior design, furniture and home furnishings, while several shopping centres have sprung up in the surrounding communes, creating a real commercial dynamism ranging from local crafts to international brands and franchises. Household consumption and the purchasing power of New Caledonians are high and could allow other international retailers to set up shop in order to diversify the local offer. Key figures 59% in retail, 21% in wholesale and 20% in motor vehicle repairs 16% of the territory’s private sector employees - 10,300 jobs 40 car brands represented by 6 groups Opportunities Developing e-commerce 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES Setting up new international retailers Boosting retail activity in Noumea city centre Encouraging the establishment of local shops in neighbourhoods Players dedicated to the sector Cluster New Caledonia Trade & Invest (NCT&I) Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie (CCI) Traders’ Union 32
NICKEL - CONSTRUCTION Nickel As New Caledonia's largest employer and main source of exports, nickel remains the benchmark economic sector. It accounts for about 7% of New Caledonian GDP and 20% of employment. To date, New Caledonia is ranked as 3rd world reserve and 6th producer of nickel. The mining sites and the 3 plants regularly call on subcontractors, and many services are necessary for the smooth running of the sector. Key figures 80 companies and 6,100 employees (1/4 of all employees in the private sector) 208,000 To extracted in 2019, 95,600 To of metallurgical products leaving plants 7% of GDP (43bn XPF / €360M direct added value - 137bn XPF / €1.1bn with indirect and induced effects) 95% of the territory's exports (by value): laterites, saprolites, ferronickel, nickel oxide, cobalt, etc. Main cost centres: energy, construction, transport, telecommunications Construction The building and public works (BTP) sector comprises more than 7,500 companies and accounts for 10% of New Caledonia’s GDP. Property-related tax incentives (tax exemptions, tax relief, reduced registration fees, etc.), infrastructure projects and major building sites are all assets for the sector, but the challenges of the future will focus on new ways of building and living and the renovation of existing housing stock (silver economy, eco-construction, connected housing, etc.). Key figures 22,000 jobs (1/3 of all employees in the private sector) Annual sales 100 bn XPF / €835M 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 33
Opportunities - Supporting the mining sector's energy transition to a greener nickel - Developing cutting-edge industrial maintenance - Developing intelligent housing - Focusing on the silver economy market - Developing environmentally-friendly housing (eco-construction, energy performance of buildings, etc.) - Directing players towards the renovation of existing buildings Financing State / Government NC: Local / national tax exemption, double tax exemption BpiFrance: unsecured loans (Prêt Développement Outre-mer, Prêt Croissance, Assurance Prospection Accompagnement) Players dedicated to the sector AMD and Eco Construction clusters Syndicat des Professionnels du Bâtiment et des Travaux Publics (SPBTP) Chambre de Métiers et de l’Artisanat (CMA) Direction de l’Industrie, des Mines et de l’Énergie de Nouvelle-Calédonie (DIMENC) 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 34
PROCESSING INDUSTRY The processing industry is a key sector that is looking for a variety of ways to develop in order to meet strong local demand, while at the same time offsetting the need to import processed products. The manufacturing industry represents almost 2,600 companies, 80% of which are located in the industrial zones of Greater Noumea. The main industrial sectors are food processing (1/3 of the workforce), production of construction materials (30% of the workforce), textiles and personal equipment, production and equipment for the home, production and equipment for cars/motorbikes/boats, printing and signage, production of intermediate goods and industrial equipment, and industrial maintenance. The ambitions to export local products with high added value, the policy of maintaining competitive advantages and the regional partnerships with Vanuatu and Fiji are major assets for the development of the processing industry, particularly in the agri-food sector. Key figures 9% of GDP - XPF100bn / €835M 6,150 employees excluding steel factories 87% of production sites located in the Southern Province 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 35
Opportunities - Developing exports of high added-value goods - Developing the agri-food industry - Developing the waste recovery and recycling industries Financing Southern Province: CASE - General economics State / Government NC: Local / national tax exemption, double tax exemption BpiFrance: unsecured loans (Prêt Développement Outre-mer, Prêt Croissance, Assurance Prospection Accompagnement) Players dedicated to the sector AMD cluster Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie (CCI) Fédération des Industries de Nouvelle-Calédonie (FINC) Chambre de Métiers et de l’Artisanat (CMA) 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 36
HEALTH According to the Do Kamo Plan, New Caledonia's 2018-2028 healthcare plan, which aims to reform the healthcare system and strengthen prevention, healthcare expenditure represents 23% of New Caledonia's GDP and more than 3,000 healthcare professionals. Healthcare expenditure increases by about 3% each year and amounts to more than 400 KF.XPF/year/inhabitant (€3.3 K). New Caledonia has recent, modern healthcare infrastructure, a wide range of medical and hospital services and highly-skilled healthcare professionals (both public and private). The Médipôle in Dumbea, with its world-class health facilities and advanced treatment techniques, and the Kuindo Magnin Clinic in Nouville, are concrete examples of progress in healthcare for the territory. However, healthcare provision remains limited in some communes. The autonomous social protection system provides full access to healthcare for all. The management of the basic scheme (Régime Unifié d'Assurance Maladie-Maternité - RUAMM) is entrusted to the Caisse de Compensation des prestations Familiales, des Accidents du Travail et de Prévoyance des Travailleurs de Nouvelle-Calédonie (CAFAT). Supplementary health insurance schemes can supplement members' health cover by providing a high level of cover. Key figures 6 hospital centres - 1,400 inpatient places (private and public) throughout the territory In the Southern Province: o Médipôle: 82,000 m² - 645 beds - 2,000 staff - 60,000 emergencies - 58,000 consultations - 40,000 hospital admissions o Clinique Kouindo Magnin: 24,000 m² - 219 beds - 400 employees Institut Pasteur, Radiotherapy Centre, Medical and Social Centres, Dispensaries, etc. 65% of the population rate their health as "very good" or "good" . 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 37
Opportunities - Developing e-health and medical tourism - Developing multidisciplinary health centres and facilities for the elderly - Developing facilities for people with disabilities - Developing research and development on bio-drugs and pharmaceutical products based on molecules derived from natural resources Financing Southern Province: incentives to encourage self-employed doctors to set up practice Players dedicated to the sector Direction des Affaires Sanitaires et Sociales (DASS) Direction Provinciale des Affaires Sanitaires et Sociales (DPASS) Caisse de compensation des prestations Familiales, des Accidents du travail et de prévoyance des Travailleurs de Nouvelle-Calédonie (CAFAT) Mutual insurances (MDC) (MDF) (MPL) Ordre des Médecins and Conseil de l'Ordre des Pharmaciens de NC (COPNC) Service Médical Interentreprises du Travail de Nouvelle-Calédonie (SMIT) Agence Sanitaire et Sociale de Nouvelle-Calédonie (ASSNC) 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 38
NUMEROUS INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE SOUTHERN PROVINCE Agriculture and the agri-food industry - Develop organic farming, cultivation and export of high-quality products: cocoa, vanilla, honey, coffee, pink peppercorn, coconut, cereals, prawns, etc. - Diversify methods (agroecology, agroforestry, permaculture, open air, etc.) and production (cereals, vegetable proteins, hemp, etc.) 13 - Recover unsold produce and organic waste from farming, processing or non-consumption (compost, soil improver, energy, animal feed, etc.) - Explore transformation processes: frozen, dried fruit, preserves, soups, juices, etc. Promoting biodiversity and natural substances - Develop forestry and promote high-quality products: sandalwood, niaouli, tamanu, wood, resin, etc. - Developing biodiversity observation and protection activities - Structuring economic sectors that make the most of biodiversity (biotech, biomimetics, etc.) - Exploiting natural substances for medical, cosmetic and agri-food purposes... - Developing tourism linked to marine and terrestrial biodiversity Digital Technology - Innovation - Research & Development - Developing sectors such as e-commerce, foodtech, e-health, etc. - Creating innovative digital and IT tools - Developing cyber security professions - Betting on biotechnologies Green Economy / Circular Economy / Social and Solidarity Economy - Developing waste prevention, treatment and recovery - Developing the circular economy, eco-designed and reusable products - Reducing fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions - Diversifying renewable energy sources (hydrogen, etc.) - Developing activities in line with the "social and solidarity" concept - Improving the energy performance of buildings - Promoting "green" modes of transport and industrial facilities 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 39
Tourism - Diversify the tourism offering: business tourism, sports tourism, gastronomy, training, events, medical tourism, eco-tourism, seaside tourism, etc. - Developing domestic tourism - Developing yachting and luxury tourism Sea economy 14 - Diversifying seafood products and exports (scallops, oysters, sea cucumbers, giant clams, etc.) - Developing the processing of fishery and aquaculture products - Developing sea-related tourism - Continuing research on microalgae, algae, venoms and bacteria - Exploiting underwater data - Recovering seafood waste - Developing maritime energy techniques Trade - Developing e-commerce - Setting up new international retailers - Boosting retail activity in Noumea city centre - Encouraging the establishment of local shops in neighbourhoods Nickel - Construction - Supporting the mining sector's energy transition to a greener nickel - Developing cutting-edge industrial maintenance - Developing intelligent housing - Focusing on the silver economy market - Developing environmentally-friendly housing (eco-construction, energy performance of buildings, etc.) - Directing players towards the renovation of existing buildings 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 40
Processing industry - Developing exports of high added-value goods - Developing the agri-food industry - Developing the waste recovery and recycling industries Health - Developing e-health and medical tourism - Developing multidisciplinary health centres and facilities for the elderly - Developing facilities for people with disabilities - Developing research and development on bio-drugs and pharmaceutical products based on molecules derived from natural resources 3 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SECTORS AND OPPORTUNITIES 41
4 BUSINESS PARKS The Southern Province has a number of business parks, mainly industrial, commercial and craft. They are designed, managed and developed to accommodate all types of business. In order to stimulate the economy of certain geographical areas, the New Caledonian government introduced a system of Free Trade Zones at the end of 2019. These zones meet criteria of population density, employment rate and maximum tax revenue, as well as a lack of sea or air access. Each Province identifies and proposes to the Government geographical areas that meet these criteria, so that companies setting up there can benefit from exemptions from income tax (3 years then degressive), property tax, business tax (3 years) and employers' contributions. Eligible companies must be start-ups and at least 50% owned by natural persons. They may operate in the industrial, tourism, commercial, digital, craft or agricultural sectors. There are also a wide range of business accommodation options, from renting or buying offices to co-working spaces offering hourly or subscription rates and shared facilities (reception, photocopying, relaxation area, cafeteria, meeting rooms, gym, rooftop, etc.). Finally, many sites offer solutions for organising events and other conferences and seminars, from room hire to cocktail parties and other à la carte services. 42
Z.I. DE NÉKOU - BOURAIL OUANO ZONE - LA FOA MEARE AREA - LA FOA Z.I. DE OUAYA - BOULOUPARIS 50 km - 0.5 h "ZICO" - PAÏTA "ZIZA" - PAÏTA "ZIPAD" - PAÏTA MARINA / NOURÉ AREA - PAÏTA 80 km - 1 h 30 km - 0.5 h ZAC DE DUMBEA SUR MER - DUMBÉA "PANDA" DEVELOPMENT ZONE - DUMBEA ZAC CUK - DUMBÉA ZAC KOUTIO KOUETA - NOUMEA ZAC DE NUMBO - NOUMEA ZICO DE DUCOS - NOUMEA GRANDE PLAISANCE MARINA - NOUMEA QUAI FERRY COMPLEX - NOUMEA CITY CENTRE / LATIN DISTRICT - NOUMEA NOUVILLE DIGITAL, COMMERCIAL AND CRAFT INNOVATION CENTRE - NOUMEA ECOPOLE - NOUMEA Z.I. LA COULÉE - MONT-DORE YAHOUÉ BUSINESS PARK - NORMANDIE BUSINESS PARKS IN THE SOUTHERN PROVINCE 43
"KOUTIO KOUETA" WASTE RECYCLING BUSINESS PARK (ZAC) IN NOUMEA In the North of the Ducos industrial area (ZI), this zone will enable spaces and equipment to be shared and will offer services dedicated to waste recovery activities. # Meets the objectives of encouraging the emergence of recycling and waste recovery solutions. # Dyking platform for the installation of temporary and demountable waste recovery and storage activities. # On site: companies, associations and institutions # Complementary to the "Ecopôle", a business park dedicated to private recycling initiatives. NUMBO BUSINESS PARK IN NOUMEA Koutio Koueta - A centre of naval expertise, this maritime centre of excellence brings together equipment and know-how tailored to the specific needs of the local and regional professional fleet. # More than 110 companies already established # Main activities: barging and shipbuilding-repair, industrial and maritime DUCOS INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL ZONE (ZICO) IN NOUMEA Ducos is New Caledonia's main industrial and commercial zone. # Ducos Le Centre: the area's main business district # Over 65,000 vehicles / day # More than 3,000 businesses (the country's economic lungs) # Main activities: crafts, services, retail, light manufacturing and heavy industrial infrastructures. GRANDE PLAISANCE MARINA IN NOUMEA The creation of a modern, high-performance yachting marina to meet New Caledonia's ambition to develop top-of-the-range tourism. # On site: refuelling service, technical workshops, harbourmaster's office, shops... Ducos - Noumea 4 - BUSINESS PARKS NOUMEA Numbo - Noumea 44
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