Manganese Production by Country 2024

Many industries around the world rely on alloy elements to complete key products and production components. Manganese is an example of one that’s essential to industrial endeavors such as steel production, battery production, and fertilizer production.

However, the ongoing production of manganese can vary according to country, as well as the presence of certain influencing factors. Here’s a closer look at the current top global manganese producers, as well as some of the factors contributing to their productivity.

Top Manganese-Producing Countries Around the World

The following are some of the biggest contributors to the world's manganese supply as of 2023.

South Africa

With an approximate annual yield of 7.2 million metric tons, South Africa is currently the world’s biggest manganese producer in the world. The country owes its robust production success to a combination of advantages, including its ample natural manganese caches (particularly those throughout the Kalahari Basin) and its superior production infrastructure.

Although South Africa does export some of its steel to support its economy, much of its manganese production is reinvested in the country’s formidable steel production operations.

Gabon

Nestled within Central Africa, Gabon possesses substantial manganese deposits that help it to be the world’s current global producer with a yield of 4.6 million metric tons. Its production levels have increased over time thanks to ample investment in its mining structure.

Australia

With an approximate annual yield of 3.3 million metric tons, Australia is the third-largest global producer of manganese. As with Gabon and South Africa, Australia combines natural reserves with a well-planned infrastructure to maximize manganese output.

Australia also possesses robust export networks that help support its production efforts.

Additional countries that contribute ample amounts of manganese to the ongoing world supply include China, Ghana, India, Brazil, Ukraine, Malaysia, and the Ivory Coast.

Factors That Impact National Manganese Production

In addition to key factors like the presence of natural manganese deposits and an infrastructure capable of supporting optimal production, examples like the following can also have an impact.

Related Product Demand: In countries where a related commodity – like steel or batteries – is a key economic contributor, there’s an added incentive to make the most of any existing manganese deposits.

Environmental Considerations: As with any type of mining operation, there are additional environmental factors to consider with manganese production. Local regulations and conservation efforts must be considered.

Political Relationships: The quality of a country’s relationships with other countries involved in the supply chain can, in turn, influence the productivity of its manganese operations.