Gabon seeks to build 4 million-tonne manganese processing capacity by 2029

Gabon aims to develop a local manganese processing capacity of 4 million tonnes per year by January 2029 as the country moves to increase domestic value creation from one of its most important mineral resources.

The government’s strategy is focused on shifting from the export of raw manganese ore to local processing, with authorities seeking to attract new industrial operators to expand the country’s transformation capacity.

Nearly 3 million tonnes of annual processing capacity remain available for new investors, beyond volumes already allocated to existing operators Eramet’s Comilog and Nouvelle Gabon Mining (NGM), according to government plans.

The move is part of Gabon’s broader industrial policy to capture more value from its mineral resources, create jobs and strengthen local manufacturing capacity. The country has announced plans to end the export of unprocessed manganese by January 2029, requiring producers to develop domestic transformation facilities.

Eramet’s Comilog, one of the world’s leading manganese producers, remains the largest operator in Gabon, while Nouvelle Gabon Mining has also developed processing activities as the country seeks to diversify its industrial base.

The government is also encouraging new partnerships with private investors to develop processing plants and related industries, particularly in areas such as manganese alloys and other higher-value products.

Gabon, one of the world's largest manganese producers, sees local processing as a key component of its economic diversification strategy and aims to reduce dependence on raw mineral exports.

The initiative reflects a wider trend across Africa, where resource-rich countries are seeking to move up the value chain by processing minerals locally rather than exporting raw materials.