President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema of Gabon signed three strategic agreements with France on Monday at the Élysée Palace [1].

These deals signal a shift toward domestic mineral processing in Gabon and a strengthening of diplomatic ties with France. By focusing on manganese, Gabon aims to move up the value chain from raw ore extraction to refined industrial products.

The agreements were the centerpiece of a three-day state visit to France [2]. A primary focus of the cooperation involves the manganese sector, where an initial agreement was reached to enhance mining and processing capabilities [1].

Gabon is moving toward a strict regulatory environment for its natural resources. The government plans to ban the export of raw manganese ore by 2029 [3]. This policy forces international partners to invest in local infrastructure if they wish to maintain access to the mineral.

As part of these industrial efforts, Eramet is planning to establish manganese processing capacity in Gabon. The company aims to process 700,000 tons per year by 2031 [3]. Additionally, a manganese oxide plant is expected to provide 10,000 tons per year starting in 2028 [3].

The strategic ties between the two nations are intended to bolster both political and economic cooperation [1]. The agreements at the Élysée Palace reflect a mutual interest in securing critical mineral supply chains for the transition to green energy, and industrial manufacturing.

“Gabon plans to ban the export of raw manganese ore by 2029”

Gabon's decision to ban raw-ore exports by 2029 forces a transition from a colonial-era extraction model to an industrialization model. By partnering with France and Eramet to build processing plants, Gabon is attempting to capture more economic value from its manganese reserves while France secures a stable supply of minerals essential for battery technology and steel production.