Eramet and Gabon Agree on Manganese Processing Roadmap by 2031 — Eramet S.A.

Event summary

Eramet and Gabon signed a memorandum of understanding on July 20, 2026, to process up to 700 kt of manganese ore annually by end-2031.
Three industrial scenarios under study include a manganese oxide plant in Libreville (10 kt capacity), revamping the Moanda Metallurgical Complex (70 kt capacity), and building a new alloy plant near the coast (265 kt capacity).
Gabon commits to ensuring energy access for the projects, with Eramet assessing profitability independently.
A biochar production sector will be developed from forestry by-products, aiming for 10 kt/year by 2029.
An industrial seed fund 'Made in Gabon' targets creating 3,000 jobs in Gabon's industrial sector.

The big picture

This agreement aligns with global trends toward local mineral processing for energy transition metals, particularly manganese, critical for batteries and steel. The deal reflects Gabon's push for economic diversification and Eramet's strategy to secure long-term supply chains amid rising demand for sustainable materials. Success hinges on Gabon's ability to provide reliable infrastructure and Eramet's disciplined capital allocation.

What we're watching

Energy Access: Whether Gabon can deliver competitive energy solutions for the new alloy plant, as its viability hinges on this commitment.
Project Viability: How Eramet's independent profitability assessments will shape the final investment decisions for each scenario.
Execution Risk: The pace at which Gabon and Eramet can operationalize the biochar sector and seed fund to meet job creation targets.