Madhumitha Jaganmohan
Research expert covering climate and environmental sustainability
Global manganese mining industry - statistics & facts
Manganese may not be as well-known as some other metals, but its impact is felt across multiple industries. Manganese, a chemical element and transition metal, is frequently found in deposits in combination with iron. Its industrial importance is particularly evident in its role in the production of iron and steel, underlining its relevance in the global manufacturing and construction sectors. Due to the expanding global steel industry, both manganese supply and demand have experienced a significant increase.
Eramet, the world's largest producer of high grade manganese ore, sources its ore from the Moanda mines in Gabon. In 2023, the company produced nearly 7.4 million metric tons of manganese ore and sinter production.
The consistent levels of manganese production over recent years highlight its enduring demand and essential role in modern industry, solidifying its position as a key player in the global metals market. Demand for manganese historically closely followed steel production and is expected to do so in the future.
Global manganese reserves and production
As of 2023, South Africa and Australia had the largest manganese reserves, holding nearly 600 and 500 million metric tons of manganese ore, respectively. Global manganese production has been quite stable over the past decade, with the total worldwide mine production volume estimated at 20 million metric tons in 2023. South Africa dominated the global mine production of manganese, producing more than one-third of the world's total manganese production that year. In 2023, South Africa contributed a substantial 7.2 million metric tons of manganese, followed by Gabon with a production volume of 4.6 million metric tons. The concentration of production in these two African countries highlights the geopolitical importance of manganese resources and the potential impact of regional events on global supply chains.Eramet, the world's largest producer of high grade manganese ore, sources its ore from the Moanda mines in Gabon. In 2023, the company produced nearly 7.4 million metric tons of manganese ore and sinter production.
Manganese demand and consumption
Up to three-quarters of manganese consumption globally was attributable to the steel industry as of 2023. Manganese demand depends very heavily on trends in global steel production and particularly on China, which alone is responsible for more than half of global steel production. The ore is particularly useful in increasing steel’s resistance to oxidation; it can also improve the overall strength, durability, and workability of the material. Additionally, manganese is used in aluminum alloys, batteries (such as dry cells and lithium-ion batteries), among others applications.The consistent levels of manganese production over recent years highlight its enduring demand and essential role in modern industry, solidifying its position as a key player in the global metals market. Demand for manganese historically closely followed steel production and is expected to do so in the future.
