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[Ferro-Alloys.com] Gabon Insists on 2029 Manganese Export Ban Despite Power Concerns

Gabon’s Mining Minister, Sosthene Nguema Nguema, confirmed on Wednesday that energy shortages will not be accepted as a reason for failing to meet the country’s 2029 ban on raw manganese exports, dismissing industry warnings that power constraints could delay refinery development.

The West African nation, the world’s second-largest manganese producer, introduced the policy last year to diversify its economy and capture more value from its mineral resources, following decades of raw-ore exports.

The move aligns Gabon with other African countries aiming to expand domestic mineral processing.

Power disruptions are common in Gabon and have historically slowed industrial expansion. Mining companies, including France’s Eramet, have expressed willingness to comply with the new refining rules but have cited power limitations as a challenge.

Speaking at the Mining Indaba conference in Cape Town, Minister Nguema stressed that technological advances have reduced energy consumption and negated such concerns. “Energy is a false debate,” he said. “Some operators have already demonstrated processes that reduce energy use by 40 to 60%. We do not expect energy to be a reason for non-compliance in 2029.”

Implementation and Compliance

Gabon exported 9.4 million metric tons of manganese in 2024, down 5.3% from the previous year, with most shipped in raw form.

The government requires all manganese miners to submit detailed implementation plans and demonstrate measurable progress toward refinery compliance.

“We are providing administrative support, but the responsibility to meet the deadline lies with the companies,” Nguema stated, reaffirming that the 2029 deadline is non-negotiable. He added that Eramet’s recent management changes, including the February 1 dismissal of its CEO, would not affect compliance obligations. “Eramet must comply like everyone else.”

Iron Mining Expansion

The minister also highlighted Gabon’s plans to expand its mining sector, with two new iron-ore mines Milingui and Baniaka expected to begin operations this year. He warned that companies failing to initiate construction or production would risk losing their licenses. “Those who promised to open mines in 2026 and have not kept their word by December 31 will be told to leave the country,” Nguema said.

This enforcement underscores Gabon’s commitment to industrialising its mining sector, increasing local value addition, and ensuring adherence to national export policies despite infrastructure challenges.

• [Editor:tianyawei]