The mining of manganese played a key role in boosting Gabon’s revenue in 2024, as the country experienced significant economic gains from rising production and higher global prices.
Gabon’s manganese mining revenue grew by 5.8%, increasing from $978 million in September 2023 to over $1 billion by 2024.
The surge was driven by a 16.7% rise in manganese ore prices, fueled by global demand shifts, supply chain disruptions, and the mineral’s strategic importance—particularly in steel production and electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing.
From January to September 2024, Gabon’s manganese output rose by 10.7% to 7.5 million tonnes, up from 6.7 million tonnes in 2023.
This growth reflects increased mining activities, infrastructure investments, and advancements in extraction technology.
Despite higher production, manganese exports fell by 7.7%, with 6.3 million tonnes shipped in the first nine months of 2024, compared to 6.8 million tonnes in 2023. According to the Ministry of Economy, this decline is linked to logistical challenges, geopolitical uncertainties, and market fluctuations.
Eramet’s subsidiary, Comilog, a leading manganese miner in Gabon, has engaged with the government to address volatility in global demand and support long-term mining operations.
As manganese remains a key driver of Gabon’s economic growth, sustained investment in mining infrastructure and trade logistics will be critical for maintaining momentum in the sector.
