Wedoany.com Report-Jun 4, Eramet, a French mining company, has committed to collaborating with the Gabonese Government despite an upcoming ban on unrefined manganese exports, effective January 1, 2029. The policy, announced by the Gabonese authorities, could impact Eramet’s subsidiary, Comilog, which operates the world’s largest manganese mine in Gabon’s Moanda region.

Eramet acknowledged the Gabonese Government’s intentions and expressed its commitment to continue working with the authorities.

The ban reflects a growing trend among African nations, including Guinea and Zimbabwe, to prioritize local processing of raw materials over exports. Manganese demand is increasing globally, driven by its use in steel production and electric vehicle batteries. Eramet expressed its dedication to working with Gabon’s government, stating: “Eramet acknowledges the Gabonese Government’s intentions and remains committed to a constructive partnership and mutual respect.”

The company emphasized protecting the livelihoods of its 10,460 Gabonese employees at Comilog and Setrag, its railway transport unit. While Comilog, partially owned by the Gabonese state, processes some manganese locally, most of its ore is currently exported. Following the announcement, Eramet’s shares initially fell 5.5% but later stabilized, trading about 4% lower by 08:00 GMT.

Gabon’s President, Brice Oligui Nguema, elected last month, aims to boost the nation’s economy through such measures. Eramet’s operations in Gabon, particularly the Moanda mine, have been a key driver of its growth, alongside its Weda Bay nickel mine in Indonesia. In contrast, its nickel operations in New Caledonia have faced challenges due to financial losses and operational difficulties.

Eramet recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Indonesia’s sovereign fund, Danantara, to explore nickel processing investments, aligning with Indonesia’s strategy to develop local industry following its nickel ore export ban. Additionally, in February, Eramet entered a non-binding MOU with Firebird Metals to supply manganese ore for Firebird’s planned facility in China, which will produce battery-grade manganese sulphate and manganese tetra-oxide.

These efforts highlight Eramet’s strategy to adapt to evolving market and regulatory landscapes while supporting sustainable industrial development and job preservation in Gabon.