13 Jan 2020

New Caledonia's Industry Federation stage fresh protest

1:00 pm on 13 January 2020

Hundreds of members of New Caledonia's Industry Federation have staged a fresh protest outside the seat of the government in Noumea, unhappy about current policies.

Microphone in focus against blurred protesters.

Photo: 123rf

The group, which represents about 600 local businesses, already rallied on Friday in the hope of meeting the president, saying it was fed up being scorned and left without respect.

Reports say the protesters used oil drums to make noises.

Its leaders claim government policies are damaging to the interests of the manufacturing sector and put thousands of jobs at risk.

They have also objected to findings of the newly-formed competition watchdog.

The government has said it supports local industries but won't endorse monopolies punishing consumers.