The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has published its Gabon Country Brief, providing an in-depth analysis of the nation's economic landscape. According to the report, Gabon is one of Africa's richer economies, with a projected real GDP per capita of approximately USD 8,641 for 2026. The country's strategic location on the Atlantic Coast provides access to global shipping routes via its ports, Owendo and Port-Gentil. With a population of 2.7 million, Gabon is well-positioned for economic growth.
Gabon's economy is rich in commodities, and the country is expected to achieve real GDP growth of 3.3% in 2026, driven by increasing hydrocarbon revenues. The inflation rate is projected to remain low at 2.3%, within the limits set by the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC). The brief highlights Gabon's substantial resource base, including its significant manganese production, which is vital for steel and electric vehicle batteries. Manganese is gaining importance as an export commodity, attracting foreign investment.
Despite the growing importance of manganese, Gabon's exports still largely rely on crude oil. However, the country's goods and services trade has rebounded sharply, from USD 9.1 billion in 2020 to USD 17.4 billion in 2024, with a consistent trade surplus. The report also notes Gabon's diversification plans, which include establishing special economic zones to enhance private investment in higher-value processing and manufacturing. Notable among these is the Nkok SEZ near Libreville.
The Gabonese government is committed to promoting local processing, with a proposed ban on raw manganese exports starting January 2029. This move aims to encourage local processing and value addition. Infrastructure investment is also crucial for Gabon's economic transformation, with the government allocating USD 197 million for infrastructure in 2025, more than double the amount from the previous year. Several planned projects, such as the 166 km Kougouleu-Medouneu corridor, will improve domestic connectivity and regional trade.
Gabon has received increased international support, including USD 150 million from the World Bank, reflecting growing confidence in the country's economic direction. The Plan National de Croissance et de Développement 2026-2030 emphasises macroeconomic stability, infrastructure, and private sector involvement. This plan is expected to drive economic growth and diversification in the country. Additionally, Gabon's financial sector has made significant advancements.
The country's financial sector has been strengthened by a partnership with the United Nations Capital Development Fund in December 2025, aimed at enhancing digital financial services and promoting financial inclusion. This partnership is expected to improve access to financial services for the Gabonese population. Dr. Yemi Kale, Afreximbank's Group Chief Economist, has expressed optimism about Gabon's economic prospects.
According to Dr. Kale, Gabon's resource endowment, strategic Atlantic location, and commitment to local processing offer significant opportunities to boost trade and investment. The country's plans for diversification and infrastructure development can strengthen industrial capacity and expand economic activities beyond hydrocarbons. Overall, the Afreximbank report suggests that Gabon is on a positive economic trajectory, with a strong potential for growth and development.
Key points
- Gabon is expected to achieve real GDP growth of 3.3% in 2026, driven by increasing hydrocarbon revenues.
- The country's goods and services trade rebounded sharply, from USD 9.1 billion in 2020 to USD 17.4 billion in 2024.
- A proposed ban on raw manganese exports starting January 2029 aims to encourage local processing and value addition.
