Gabon’s manganese production dipped to 9.1 million tons, spotlighting the nation’s logistical vulnerabilities. Persistent railway breakdowns and bottlenecks along the Transgabonais route to Owendo port disrupted operations for much of the year. Yet, the fourth quarter of 2025 marked a clear rebound in output.
This recovery stems from the revitalization of mining sites in Moanda and Franceville, pushing the national production index up by 10.8% compared to the previous quarter, as reported by the Directorate-General for the Economy and Fiscal Policy. Beyond extraction, the sector is gradually embracing local processing—a strategic pivot to add value before export.
State-led industrial push
In July 2026, the Gabonese government and the French multinational Eramet inked a landmark agreement in Paris. The deal commits Eramet to processing up to 700,000 tons of manganese ore annually in Gabon by the close of 2031. Three potential pathways are under consideration: upgrading the metallurgical complex in Moanda, establishing new processing units at Owendo, or constructing a manganese oxide plant for battery production near Libreville.
Addressing public skepticism, the Ministry of Industry clarified that Eramet’s 700,000-ton commitment is just the beginning. Other mining operators will be expected to contribute to the country’s transformation agenda. The ministry emphasized that this initiative aligns with Gabon’s broader industrialization goals, not just the ambitions of a single corporation.
Energy and sustainability in focus
The agreement also underscores Eramet’s commitment to sustainable practices, particularly in energy supply and the integration of biocharcoal. These measures aim to prepare the industry for Gabon’s 2029 deadline, when raw ore exports will be prohibited. By investing in local processing infrastructure and greener technologies, the sector is positioning itself for long-term competitiveness on the global stage.