A Global Commodity at the Heart of Industrial and Clean Energy Transitions

The global manganese market

The global manganese market is a dynamic landscape shaped by both traditional industrial demand and the rapid growth of the clean energy sector. Historically, the steel industry has been the dominant consumer of manganese, driving consistent demand as economies worldwide continue to urbanize and invest in infrastructure development.

Geographically

Geographically, manganese production is highly concentrated, with South Africa, Australia, Gabon, and Brazil among the leading producers. South Africa holds the world’s largest reserves of high-grade manganese, making it a critical player in the global supply chain. However, this geographic concentration also presents supply risks, as geopolitical instability, infrastructure challenges, and regulatory changes in key producing regions can disrupt the market.

The Global Energy Transition

On the demand side, the global energy transition is reshaping the manganese landscape. The surge in electric vehicle production and the expansion of renewable energy projects have created a new and rapidly growing market for battery- grade manganese. Analysts project that the demand for manganese in battery applications will experience exponential growth in the coming years, positioning it as a critical mineral for the future of energy storage.

Economically, this shift is driving investment in the development of new mining projects and refining capacity to produce high-purity manganese suitable for battery applications.

Innovation

However, supply constraints remain a concern, as existing mining and refining infrastructure was primarily designed to serve the steel industry. Addressing these challenges will require strategic investments and technological innovation to ensure a stable and sustainable supply of manganese for both traditional and emerging markets.