Ramu Restores Full MHP Output After Upgrades, Targets Higher Nickel and Cobalt Volumes in 2025

Nickel 28 Capital

Papua New Guinea Plant Bounces Back Following Planned Shutdown and Mechanical Issues

Nickel 28 and Metallurgical Corporation of China Expect Production Growth

Ramu, the mixed-hydroxide-precipitate (MHP) plant in Papua New Guinea (PNG), has resumed full production capacity after scheduled upgrades and mechanical setbacks in late 2024. Nickel 28, the Canada-based metals investment firm, confirmed the restart, noting that Ramu’s output reached 28,669 tonnes of nickel and 2,625 tonnes of cobalt in 2024. These totals came in slightly below targets due to a planned September–October shutdown and temporary blower failure in the acid plant.

2025 Outlook: Production Guidance Expects Record Nickel and Cobalt Output

Looking ahead, Ramu’s 2025 production guidance stands at 32,000 tonnes of nickel and 2,900 tonnes of cobalt as MHP. This positions Ramu for a strong year, capitalizing on rising demand for battery materials. Ramu NiCo Management, a subsidiary of the Metallurgical Corporation of China, owns 85% of the project, while Nickel 28 holds 8.56%. The remainder is owned by PNG government-related entities and local landowners, ensuring strong domestic participation.

China’s MHP Imports Grow, but PNG Shipments Drop

MHP is a key feedstock for nickel sulphate and nickel cathode production—critical for batteries and electric vehicles. In 2024, China imported 1.43 million tonnes of MHP, up 8.4% from a year earlier, yet PNG’s exports to China dropped 31% year-on-year to 118,531 tonnes. With Ramu back at full capacity, PNG’s share in the global MHP market may rebound in 2025.