New Caledonia: Ongoing blockade of fuel depots by unionized workers likely to disrupt fuel supply territorywide through at least end-March

An ongoing blockade of fuel depots across New Caledonia by activists from Agissons Solidaires collective will likely persist through end-March. The action is to denounce the government's proposal to modify the Energy Transition Tax to include additional taxation on fuel products; demonstrators allege it will unfairly affect consumer prices. As of the morning of March 25, President Louis Mapou has agreed to postpone the implementation of the tax till further parliamentary discussions slated to occur in June. Protesters will likely continue the action until their demands are met. Organizers may cancel the action at short notice if negotiations with officials succeed.

Reports indicate that most of the 80 fuel service stations across the territory have run out of fuel, and they are unlikely to receive additional supplies until the action ends. Several public transport operators, including Reseau d'Autocars Interurbain (RAI), a public coach network that operates across New Caledonia, announced the temporary suspension of operations. Business operations and ground shipping will likely experience disruptions, especially if protesters prolong the action.

Localized transport disruptions will almost certainly occur if activists continue to disrupt traffic by filling highway lanes with slow-moving trucks and tractors. Organizers have previously disrupted traffic along the Medipole bridge and the city center of Noumea; certain areas within South Province, including La Foa, Nakutakoin, and Tonghoue, have also experienced traffic delays.

Unannounced solidarity protests are possible, especially outside government buildings in Noumea, public squares, and along major thoroughfares. Security personnel will likely monitor any large protests. Isolated skirmishes between police and activists cannot be ruled out. Localized transport disruptions are possible near well-attended demonstrations.