Research and consulting in Gabon

Country overview:

IOA has invested significant research efforts into developing a data-driven understanding of Gabon, alongside conducting consulting projects focused on the country. Our researchers have observed that the environment has not been heavily impacted by mineral excavation. Gabon is Africa’s fifth-largest oil producer and boasts substantial deposits of manganese and other minerals, with forests still covering 85% of the country. In late August 2023, a bloodless coup overthrew a ruling party that had been in power for six decades, potentially signaling improvements in governance and corruption. However, Gabon was immediately suspended and sanctioned by the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).

Economic diversification is crucial to lessen reliance on global commodity prices, although foreign direct investment remains strong due to the country’s oil sector.

Key opportunities in Gabon:

Gabon’s oil resources continue to attract foreign investment and have driven growth in the industrial sector
With its vast forests, much of Gabon’s environment remains pristine, offering significant potential as a carbon sink valuable to the international community
The country’s extensive manganese deposits, combined with strong ties to France and European partners, represent valuable long-term assets

Key concerns/risks in Gabon:

IOA researchers conclude that the overthrow of the previous corrupt government could present opportunities if democracy is restored
Challenges for doing business include inadequate electricity and transportation infrastructure, along with a weak regulatory environment
High unemployment rates among young people and women pose significant societal challenges

Find out about how IOA can help you with research and consulting services in Gabon

Tips on doing business in Gabon:

Starting a business:

While local policies are generally supportive of foreign investment, bureaucratic inefficiencies remain a challenge. There are no specific regulations preventing foreign ownership of property, but the process can be hindered by bureaucratic obstacles
Gabon’s 1998 investment code broadly grants foreign firms and business owners the same rights as local entities, and since 2020, the country has operated a “one-stop shop” for business registration
(Read more at: https://investingabon.ga/)

Doing business:

Over the past decade, the Gabonese government has made continuous efforts to improve the ease of doing business. These initiatives include changes to the business registration process, enhanced transparency in the land registry, the introduction of an electronic tax filing system, and the streamlining of building construction permits
However, corruption and a lack of transparency regarding goods tariffs and customs fees continue to be significant challenges

Culture and society:

Gabon is a francophone society and as such, most business is conducted in French. This has been slowly changing in recent years due to efforts at promoting English as a second language and increased activity by Anglophone multinationals
As a francophone country, French is the primary language used in business. However, this has gradually been changing in recent years due to efforts to promote English as a second language and the growing presence of Anglophone multinational companies