ABOUT GABON

Gabon, located on the west coast of Central Africa along the Atlantic Ocean, is known for its rich natural resources and stable political environment. Despite being one of the smaller African countries by population, with approximately 2.3 million people as of 2023, Gabon boasts one of the highest GDP per capita in Sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting its relatively developed economy based largely on oil and natural resources.

The capital city, Libreville, is the largest urban center and serves as the main economic and administrative hub. Gabon uses the Central African CFA Franc (XAF), which is pegged to the Euro, ensuring currency stability.

French is the official language, facilitating business and diplomatic relations with France and other Francophone countries.

GEOGRAPHY & INFRASTRUCTURE

Gabon borders Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, and the Republic of Congo. Its strategic location along the Atlantic coastline makes it a natural gateway for trade in Central Africa.

Airports & Air Connectivity

• Libreville International Airport connects Gabon to major African cities, Europe, and the Middle East.

   

• Additional regional airports improve domestic connectivity and regional access.

   

Ports & Trade

• Gabon’s principal seaport, Port of Owendo near Libreville, is the country’s main gateway for imports and exports.

   

• The port handles timber, minerals, oil products, and agricultural exports.

   

• Gabon is investing in port infrastructure to expand capacity and improve logistics.

   

TAXATION & BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT

• Corporate Tax Rate: 30% standard rate on profits.

   

• Value Added Tax (VAT): 18% generally applied to goods and services.

   

• Tax Incentives: Offered for companies investing in priority sectors such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing, including customs duty exemptions and tax holidays.

   

• Gabon has implemented reforms to improve the business climate, with ongoing efforts to simplify registration and encourage foreign direct investment (FDI).

   

SECTORS WITH HIGH INVESTMENT POTENTIAL

Oil & Gas

Gabon is a significant oil producer in Africa, with petroleum accounting for a major portion of government revenue and exports. Despite fluctuations in oil prices, the sector remains a critical area for investment, including exploration and production services.

Mining & Minerals

Rich in minerals like manganese, gold, iron ore, and uranium, Gabon offers promising opportunities in mining and mineral processing. The government supports foreign participation and partnerships in this sector.

Timber & Forestry

Gabon’s vast rainforests make timber an important export commodity. Sustainable forestry and value-added wood processing industries offer room for growth.

Agriculture & Agro-Processing

Though underdeveloped, agriculture has potential in cocoa, coffee, palm oil, and cassava cultivation. Investment in agro-processing can boost exports and import substitution.

Infrastructure & Construction

Urbanization and industrial development are driving demand for roads, housing, and commercial infrastructure projects.

Tourism

Gabon’s rich biodiversity, including national parks and wildlife reserves, positions it as an emerging ecotourism destination. Investment opportunities exist in hotels, lodges, and related services.

ADVANTAGES OF INVESTING IN GABON

• Political Stability: Gabon enjoys relative political calm compared to many regional neighbors, providing a safer investment environment.

   

• Currency Stability: The CFA franc’s peg to the Euro offers predictable exchange rates.

   

• Strategic Location: Access to Atlantic shipping lanes and proximity to regional markets.

   

• Natural Resources: Abundant oil, minerals, and forests support diverse business opportunities.

   

• Government Incentives: Tax breaks and investment-friendly policies for key sectors.

   

• Skilled Workforce: Growing education system with focus on technical skills.

   

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIAN INVESTORS

Indian investors can explore several sectors in Gabon, including:

• Oil and gas exploration and services

   

• Mining and mineral extraction

   

• Agro-processing industries

   

• Timber and furniture manufacturing

   

• Pharmaceuticals and healthcare products

   

• Construction materials and infrastructure development

   

• ICT and telecommunications

   

TRADE RELATIONS: IMPORTS & EXPORTS

Major Exports from Gabon to India

• Crude oil and petroleum products

   

• Manganese ore

   

• Timber and wood products

   

• Minerals

   

Major Imports from India to Gabon

• Machinery and electrical equipment

   

• Pharmaceuticals

   

• Vehicles and transport equipment

   

• Textiles and garments

   

• Chemicals and fertilizers

   

MANUFACTURING SECTOR

The Gabonese government is encouraging diversification of the economy through the development of manufacturing industries such as:

• Processed wood products and furniture

   

• Agro-processing for cocoa, palm oil, and cassava

   

• Construction materials including cement and steel products

   

• Consumer goods manufacturing

   

MINING SECTOR

Mining is a priority sector for Gabon with significant deposits of manganese (one of the world’s largest producers), gold, iron ore, and uranium. Government policies support foreign investment in exploration and mining development.

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

• GDP: Approximately $19 billion

   

• GDP Growth Rate: Around 3.5%

   

• GDP Per Capita: Approximately $8,200

   

• Inflation Rate: Around 2-3%

   

• Ease of Doing Business Rank: Improving, currently near 130

   

For comprehensive assistance in navigating Gabon’s business landscape—including due diligence, company registration, financial planning, and property leasing—Opesh Group is your trusted partner for seamless market entry.

Contact us: Call/WhatsApp +91-8094607111