Gabon has unveiled plans to cease the export of raw manganese by 2029, a strategic move aimed at fostering domestic industrialization and reducing its historical dependence on unprocessed mineral exports. The policy shift, announced by government officials, is part of a broader economic transformation agenda intended to harness greater value from the country’s abundant natural resources.
Manganese is one of Gabon’s primary export commodities, alongside oil and timber, and plays a critical role in the country’s revenue stream. Currently ranked as the world’s second-largest producer of the mineral, Gabon sees this transition as an opportunity to reposition itself not just as a supplier of raw materials, but as a regional hub for mineral processing and manufacturing.
To support this transition, the government is requiring mining companies to invest in local processing facilities within the next three years. This mandate is designed to stimulate the growth of domestic industries, promote technology transfer, and create a wide range of skilled employment opportunities. By processing manganese domestically, Gabon hopes to retain a significantly larger share of the value chain, thus enhancing national economic resilience.
In tandem with this industrial push, a public-private investment fund is being developed to help facilitate the changeover. The fund will provide financial backing for companies looking to set up transformation plants, modernize equipment, and train the local workforce.
This isn’t the only sector facing reform. In a parallel move aimed at bolstering self-sufficiency, the government has also announced a ban on chicken meat imports starting in 2027. The measure is intended to stimulate domestic poultry production, reduce food import bills, and improve food security.
While Gabon ranks among Africa’s wealthiest nations in terms of GDP per capita, economic inequality remains a pressing challenge. A significant portion of the population continues to live below the poverty line, and access to stable employment remains limited for many. The government views these industrial and agricultural reforms as essential tools to drive inclusive economic development, close the wealth gap, and reduce poverty through job creation and local value addition.
By targeting key sectors such as mining and agriculture, Gabon is seeking to diversify its economy and reduce vulnerability to global commodity price fluctuations. The long-term vision is to build a more self-reliant and sustainable economic model rooted in local innovation and production.