Gabon’s Comilog Faces Competition from Australia’s GEMCO as Manganese Market Reopens
The reopening of South32's Groote Eylandt mine in 2026 is set to challenge Gabon's Comilog, which had gained market share in China following the mine's closure due to Cyclone Megan in early 2024. As Australian manganese supply returns, Gabon's dominance in high-grade manganese may be threatened, potentially leading to lower global ore prices. To remain competitive, Gabonese operators must focus on improving logistics and cost management.
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The reopening of the Groote Eylandt mine (GEMCO) by South32 in 2026 will challenge Gabon’s manganese producer Comilog, which had benefited from the mine's closure due to Cyclone Megan in early 2024. This closure allowed Gabon to increase its market share in China and maintain high export volumes.
With the return of Australian supply, Gabon's dominance in high-grade manganese will be tested, potentially lowering global ore prices. Gabon relies heavily on manganese as a key budget resource and must enhance its competitiveness.
While Comilog's export volumes are expected to remain strong due to the high quality of its ore, the premium for oxidized ore is expected to diminish. The year 2026 will reignite competition between Gabon and Australia, necessitating Gabonese operators to focus on reliable rail logistics and cost management to maintain their market position against the reinvigorated Australian competitor.
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