Oligui Nguema’s visit confirms economic diversification
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Direct Infos Gabon
Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema’s state visit to China from November 3 to 7, 2026 confirms Gabon’s intention to diversify its economic partners and accelerate industrialisation. A CFA franc 116.7 billion memorandum notably concerns the processing of M’Bembélé manganese, according to Direct Infos Gabon.
Trade between Gabon and China reached $3.94 billion in 2025, up 8.2%, while a CFA franc 116.7 billion memorandum was signed with South Manganese to process M’Bembélé manganese. These commitments illustrate the direction given by Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema towards diversifying economic partners and industrialisation, according to Direct Infos Gabon.
France nevertheless retains a significant presence in Gabon. According to data from France Diplomatie updated on November 4, 2026, 110 French companies are established there, providing around 14,000 jobs and generating €3.23 billion in turnover. France also remains the country’s leading supplier, with a 26% market share.
Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema’s state visit to China from November 3 to 7, 2026 comes after the shift of the partnership with China towards industrialisation, announced on November 1. It also follows the request to China to process manganese, published on November 3.
