The Gabonese manganese industry faced a challenging fourth quarter in 2025, with production plummeting to 9.1 million tons. Logistical hurdles, including persistent railway failures and bottlenecks along the Transgabonais route to the Owendo port, exposed critical weaknesses in the supply chain. Yet, by early 2026, signs of recovery emerged as operations resumed at the Moanda and Franceville mines, driving a 10.8% increase in national output compared to the previous quarter.
Beyond extraction, the sector is increasingly embracing local processing. The push for value addition aligns with a broader strategy to reduce reliance on raw material exports ahead of the 2029 ban on unprocessed manganese shipments.
Eramet’s ambitious transformation pledge
In July 2026, Gabon’s government and the French industrial giant Eramet formalized a landmark agreement in Paris. The deal commits Eramet to refining up to 700,000 tons of manganese annually within Gabon by the close of 2031. Three strategic pathways are under consideration: upgrading the Moanda metallurgical complex, establishing new processing facilities in Owendo, or constructing a dedicated manganese oxide plant near Libreville tailored for battery production.
Addressing public concerns
In response to skepticism from civil society and industry observers, the Ministry of Industry clarified that Eramet’s commitment represents only part of the broader initiative. Other mining operators are expected to contribute significantly to the transformation effort, ensuring a collective approach to industrial development.
Sustainability at the core of expansion plans
Eramet’s long-term strategy also prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainable practices, with plans to integrate biocharcoal into its operations. This forward-looking approach underscores the company’s commitment to aligning with global standards while preparing for the impending export restrictions.
