ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the configuration of the international nickel industry and the political economy of nickel. It focuses to the anatomy of the international nickel business and the political economy of nickel. The chapter also shows what foreign ownership and vertical integration had 'to offer' its Norwegian refinery and it explains why Falconbridge was so welcomed. It not only contributed to Falconbridge's success on world markets, but also to the fact that the Kristiansand subsidiary at last could utilize its internal resources and competitive advantages. With the acquisition of mining rights in Sudbury and the Kristiansand refinery, Falconbridge managed to combine Canadian natural resources and Norwegian refining competence. The market power and the need for vertical integration raised the barriers of entry in the nickel business. The last aspect to be commented on here is protectionism and the support from the Norwegian government.
