Gabon Expands Manganese Processing To Strengthen EV Battery Supply Chain

Gabon has taken another major step towards expanding its critical minerals industry after signing a strategic agreement with French mining company Eramet to develop new manganese processing facilities ahead of the country’s planned ban on raw manganese exports.

The memorandum of understanding outlines plans to process up to 700,000 tonnes of manganese ore annually by 2031, supporting Gabon’s strategy to capture more value from its mineral resources while strengthening its position in the global electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain.

The agreement was signed during President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema’s official visit to France and comes ahead of Gabon’s decision to prohibit exports of unprocessed manganese from January 2029.

The proposed projects include expanding the existing Moanda Metallurgical Complex, constructing a new manganese alloy plant for the steel industry and developing a battery-grade manganese oxide facility capable of producing 10,000 tonnes annually for the growing EV market.

Although steel manufacturing currently accounts for the majority of global manganese demand, battery manufacturers are increasingly using manganese-rich chemistries to improve battery performance while reducing reliance on more expensive minerals such as nickel and cobalt.

Eramet, through its subsidiary Comilog, already operates one of the world’s largest manganese mining operations in Gabon. The company says each proposed project will undergo technical and commercial assessments before final investment decisions are made.

Beyond mineral processing, the partnership also includes plans to establish a biochar industry using forestry waste to reduce emissions from manganese production, as well as a “Made in Gabon” industrial development fund expected to support local manufacturing and create up to 3,000 jobs.

The agreement reflects a growing trend across Africa, where mineral-rich countries are encouraging local processing and beneficiation instead of exporting raw commodities. Similar policies are being implemented in sectors such as lithium, bauxite and other critical minerals as governments seek greater participation in global clean energy supply chains.

If successfully implemented, the new projects could significantly strengthen Gabon’s industrial base, increase export value and position the country as a leading supplier of processed manganese products for both the global steel and electric vehicle industries.