By Dr. Olivia Bennett | Chief Editor, Business | May 26, 2026
Paris — In a move that could send ripples through Gabon’s economic and mining sectors, the Duval family—Eramet’s controlling shareholder with a 37% stake—is reportedly considering the sale of its historic holding. According to financial sources familiar with the matter, the family has engaged Lazard to explore options, including a partial or full divestment, marking a pivotal moment for one of Africa’s most influential mining and metallurgy groups.
Eramet, which operates manganese, nickel, and ferronickel projects across Gabon, the Congo, and New Caledonia, has long been a cornerstone of Gabon’s economy. The potential sale of the Duval family’s stake—if realized—would not only reshape corporate governance at Eramet but also raise questions about the company’s future trajectory, its role in Gabon’s resource-driven development, and the broader implications for global commodity markets.
While details remain scant, the exploration of a sale by the Duval family suggests a strategic reassessment at a time when Eramet faces both opportunities and challenges. The company’s manganese operations in Gabon, in particular, have been a key driver of economic growth, contributing €2.5 billion in economic activity in 2025, according to Gabonese government reports. Yet, the global shift toward green energy and the demand for critical minerals like nickel—where Eramet holds significant assets—could be accelerating such deliberations.
Why the Duval Family’s Potential Exit Matters
Eramet’s history is deeply intertwined with the Duval family, whose industrial legacy spans over a century. The family’s 37% stake, held through holding companies, has long been a stabilizing force in the company’s governance. A sale—whether to another industrial group, a sovereign wealth fund, or a consortium—would mark a generational shift for Eramet.
For Gabon, the implications are multifaceted. Eramet’s operations have been a major contributor to the country’s GDP, with the company injecting over 560 billion CFA francs (approximately €830 million) into the national economy in 2025, according to the Gabonese Ministry of Economy. The potential divestment could also prompt questions about foreign investment in Gabon’s strategic sectors, particularly as the country seeks to diversify its economy beyond oil and mining.
On the global stage, Eramet’s manganese and nickel assets are critical for industries ranging from steel production to electric vehicle batteries. A change in ownership could influence supply chains, pricing dynamics, and even geopolitical alliances in the commodities sector.
What We Know—and What Remains Uncertain
The exploration of a sale by the Duval family was first reported by Les Échos on April 9, 2026, citing sources close to the family. While the report suggests Lazard has been mandated to assess potential buyers, neither Eramet nor the Duval family has confirmed the details publicly. Eramet’s stock, which trades on Euronext Paris, has not yet reacted to the speculation, though market observers are closely watching for any official announcements.
Key questions remain unanswered:
- Will the sale be partial or full? A partial sale could dilute the Duval family’s influence without altering control, while a full divestment would open Eramet to a broader range of strategic investors.
- Who are the potential buyers? Speculation has focused on industrial groups with interests in manganese and nickel, as well as sovereign wealth funds seeking exposure to Africa’s resource sector.
- How will this impact Eramet’s operations in Gabon? Gabon’s government has historically prioritized partnerships with long-standing investors like Eramet, and any change in ownership could require renegotiation of contracts and concessions.
- What does this mean for Eramet’s debt and financial strategy? The company has faced volatility in commodity prices, and a new ownership structure could influence its capital structure and investment priorities.
Eramet’s Economic Footprint in Gabon: A Closer Look
Eramet’s presence in Gabon extends beyond its Moanda manganese mine, one of the world’s largest. The company’s operations have supported thousands of direct and indirect jobs, while its investments in infrastructure—such as roads, ports, and power supplies—have bolstered regional development. In 2025 alone, Eramet’s contributions to Gabon’s economy were estimated at €2.5 billion, a figure that includes taxes, royalties, and local procurement, according to the Gabonese Ministry of Economy.
Beyond economic contributions, Eramet’s operations have also played a role in Gabon’s efforts to reduce its reliance on oil. The government has increasingly emphasized the diversification of its economy, and mining—particularly in manganese and nickel—has become a key pillar of this strategy. A change in Eramet’s ownership could therefore have broader implications for Gabon’s economic diversification agenda.
Global Commodity Markets: Nickel and Manganese in the Spotlight
Eramet’s assets are not just significant for Gabon—they are critical to global supply chains. The company’s manganese operations are vital for steel production, while its nickel assets are increasingly relevant as the world transitions to electric vehicles. Nickel prices, in particular, have surged in recent years due to demand from battery manufacturers, making Eramet’s holdings highly attractive to potential investors.
If the Duval family proceeds with a sale, the new owners would inherit a company with:
- A diversified portfolio of manganese, nickel, and ferronickel assets across three continents.
- Strong operational presence in Gabon, the Congo, and New Caledonia, with long-term contracts in place.
- Exposure to both traditional steel markets and the burgeoning green energy sector.
- A balance sheet that reflects the volatility of commodity markets, with debt levels that would need careful management.
What Happens Next?
While the Duval family’s exploration of a sale is still in its early stages, the process is likely to unfold over several months. Key milestones to watch include:
- Official confirmation: Eramet or the Duval family may issue a statement clarifying whether Lazard’s mandate has been formalized and, if so, the scope of the potential sale.
- Market reaction: Eramet’s stock price and trading volume could provide early indicators of investor sentiment ahead of any formal announcement.
- Regulatory and governmental approvals: In Gabon, any change in foreign ownership of strategic assets would require approval from the government, particularly given the sector’s importance to national development.
- Potential buyer interest: Rumors of interest from industrial groups, sovereign wealth funds, or private equity firms could emerge as Lazard conducts its due diligence.
The next official checkpoint is likely to be a formal announcement from Eramet or the Duval family, potentially accompanied by a press release or regulatory filing. Until then, market participants and stakeholders in Gabon will continue to monitor developments closely.
Key Takeaways
- The Duval family’s potential sale of its 37% stake in Eramet could mark a generational shift for the company and Gabon’s mining sector.
- Eramet’s operations in Gabon contribute significantly to the national economy, with €2.5 billion in economic activity reported in 2025.
- A change in ownership could impact supply chains for manganese and nickel, critical minerals for steel and green energy industries.
- Gabon’s government will likely play a key role in approving any foreign investment in Eramet’s strategic assets.
- The process, if it proceeds, could take months, with official announcements expected before any transaction is finalized.
As the situation develops, World Today Journal will continue to provide updates on this story and its implications for Gabon’s economy, global commodity markets, and the future of Eramet. For now, all eyes are on Paris and Libreville as the potential sale unfolds.
What are your thoughts on this potential shift in Eramet’s ownership? Could it benefit Gabon’s economy in the long term, or does it signal instability? Share your perspectives in the comments below.