Gabon, France Sign Key Manganese Deal During Nguema’s State Visit
Gabon and France have taken a major step toward strengthening economic ties after signing an initial agreement on manganese processing during President Brice Oligui Nguema’s state visit to Paris.
French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Oligui Nguema to the Élysée Palace on Monday, where both leaders held talks aimed at deepening political, economic and strategic cooperation between the two countries.
A key outcome of the meeting was the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between French mining company Eramet and the Gabonese government. The agreement outlines plans to process up to 700 kilotons of manganese ore annually in Gabon by the end of 2031, rather than exporting the raw material.
According to the Gabonese presidency, the agreement is expected to increase the country’s industrial capacity, create more value from its natural resources and strengthen the competitiveness of the national economy.
The move aligns with Gabon’s broader strategy of promoting local processing of its mineral resources to boost job creation, attract investment and accelerate industrial development.
In addition to the manganese agreement, both countries signed two other strategic deals covering cooperation in the security sector as well as water and energy development.
President Oligui Nguema’s office described the agreements as the beginning of a new chapter in relations between Gabon and France, focused on delivering practical benefits for citizens through stronger economic and development partnerships.
More agreements are expected before the end of the state visit, particularly on mining cooperation.
One of the remaining issues under discussion is Gabon’s decision to require all manganese mined in the country to be processed locally before export by January 2029. The policy is part of Libreville’s efforts to maximise revenue from its mineral wealth and encourage domestic industrialisation.
France has requested additional time to establish the infrastructure needed to meet Gabon’s new processing requirements, with discussions expected to continue during the visit.
The agreements highlight both countries’ commitment to expanding cooperation while supporting Gabon’s long-term goal of transforming its economy through value-added industries rather than relying on raw material exports.
