Gabon to Ban Raw Manganese Exports by 2029: A Bold Move
Colaboradores
Gabon, the world's second-largest producer of manganese, has announced a landmark decision to ban the export of raw manganese ore by 2029. This initiative, spearheaded by the Gabonese government, aims to drive local industrial development, create employment opportunities, and increase the value added to its natural resources.
Currently, the majority of Gabon's manganese is exported without processing. French mining giant Eramet, through its subsidiary Comilog, handles most of the extraction. While Comilog operates processing facilities in Gabon, the United States, Norway, and France, only a fraction of the extracted ore is processed locally. According to Argus Media, Gabon only exported 18,000 tons of silico-manganese in 2024, less than a third of Comilog's local processing capacity.
The government's mandate requires all Gabonese manganese to undergo at least initial processing within the country before export. This ambitious goal faces significant challenges. Industry experts cite the need for reliable and affordable energy to power processing plants. Gabon has been experiencing power outages, hindering industrial operations.
Union Support and Calls for Collaboration
The Confédération Syndicale des Travailleurs du Gabon (CSTG), Gabon's trade union confederation, has strongly supported the government's decision. Aymar Kissengori, the CSTG president, praised the move as patriotic and a revolutionary step for the national economy. The CSTG has long advocated for local manganese processing, estimating that exporting raw manganese costs the country 180 billion CFA francs annually in tax revenue.
The CSTG emphasizes that this ban will unlock industrial opportunities, create thousands of skilled jobs, increase tax revenues, and enhance economic sovereignty. They advocate for a national dialogue involving the government, businesses, and unions to ensure the reform's success. The union also calls for massive investments in processing infrastructure.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While the ban presents significant opportunities for Gabon's industrial development, successful implementation hinges on addressing key challenges. Securing a stable and affordable energy supply is paramount. Furthermore, attracting investment in processing infrastructure and developing a skilled workforce will be crucial. With collaborative efforts and strategic investments, Gabon can transform its manganese sector into a key driver of economic growth and diversification.
- Focus on infrastructure development
- Attract foreign investment
- Develop local workforce skills