Logistical bottlenecks challenge Gabon’s manganese output
Gabon’s manganese production dipped to 9.1 million tonnes, drawing attention to persistent weaknesses in the country’s logistics network. Frequent breakdowns and bottlenecks along the Transgabonais railway, which connects mining sites to the Owendo port, have repeatedly disrupted operations. Yet, the final quarter of 2025 marked a significant rebound in activity.
Local processing gains momentum as production rebounds
Fueled by the restart of operations at the Moanda and Franceville deposits, the national production index surged by 10.8% compared to the previous quarter, according to the Directorate General of Economics and Fiscal Policy. While extraction remains critical, the sector is gradually pivoting toward domestic processing to add value before export.
Landmark agreement targets 700,000 tonnes of processed manganese by 2031
In July 2026, the Gabonese government and the French multinational Eramet formalized an agreement in Paris, committing Eramet to processing up to 700,000 tonnes of manganese ore annually within Gabon by the end of 2031. Three potential pathways are under consideration: upgrading the Moanda metallurgical complex, establishing new processing facilities in Owendo, or constructing an oxide manganese battery plant near Libreville.
Addressing public skepticism, the Ministry of Industry clarified that Eramet’s pledge represents only one component of the broader transformation effort. Other operators are expected to contribute significantly to meeting local processing targets.
Industry prepares for 2029 raw ore export ban
With a 2029 deadline looming for the prohibition of raw manganese ore exports, Eramet is actively aligning its strategy with this regulatory shift. The company is investing in energy supply solutions and integrating biocharcoal to optimize production efficiency and reduce environmental impact, reinforcing its commitment to a sustainable industrial transition.
