Gabon’s manganese sector shifts toward local processing amid logistical hurdles

Production of manganese in Gabon dipped to 9.1 million tonnes in the final quarter of 2025, spotlighting persistent logistical bottlenecks. Frequent breakdowns and bottlenecks along the supply chain, particularly on the Transgabonais railway en route to Owendo port, disrupted operations. Yet, the first signs of recovery emerged in early 2026 as output rebounded.

The rebound followed the restart of mining activities at Moanda and Franceville, where production rose by 10.8% compared to the previous quarter, according to official figures from the Directorate General of Economy and Fiscal Policy (DEPF). Beyond extraction, the sector is gradually embracing local processing to add value before export.

Industrial strategy gains momentum

In July 2026, the Gabonese government and the French multinational Eramet formalized a groundbreaking agreement in Paris. The deal commits Eramet to processing up to 700,000 tonnes of manganese annually in Gabon by the end of 2031. Three potential pathways are under evaluation: upgrading the Moanda metallurgical complex, setting up processing units at Owendo, or establishing a manganese oxide battery plant near Libreville.

Public concerns addressed

Following public skepticism about the scope of the agreement, the Ministry of Industry clarified that Eramet’s commitment represents only one piece of a broader transformation strategy. Other manganese operators are expected to contribute to the domestic processing effort in line with national industrialization goals.

Energy and innovation at the core

Eramet is also prioritizing energy supply solutions and the integration of biocharcoal to support industrial operations. These measures reinforce a clear industry trend: producers are aligning their strategies with the 2029 deadline set for banning the export of raw manganese ore.