Manganese may not shine like gold or silver, but it is one of the silent metals behind modern industry. It gives strength to steel, supports construction, railways, machinery, vehicles and heavy equipment, and is now becoming more important in battery materials as well. Without manganese, the steel industry would not work with the same strength and durability.
For this 2026 list, the ranking is mainly based on manganese mine production on a manganese-content basis. USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026 estimates world manganese production at about 20 million metric tons in 2025, with South Africa, Gabon, Ghana and Australia as the leading producers.
Now let’s check out the top 10 largest producers of manganese in the world in 2026.
1. South Africa – Around 7.6 Million Metric Tons
South Africa ranks first by a huge margin. The country’s Northern Cape region is the heart of its manganese industry, especially the Kalahari manganese field. Its manganese is widely used in steelmaking and exported to global markets. South Africa also has the world’s largest manganese resource base, making it the most powerful country in this mineral sector.
2. Gabon – Around 5 Million Metric Tons
Gabon stands second among the largest manganese producers. The Moanda mining region is the centre of its manganese industry. Gabon’s ore is valued in international markets because of its quality, and exports play a major role in the country’s economy. Its production has grown strongly over the years, making Gabon one of the most important names in global manganese trade.
3. Ghana – Around 2 Million Metric Tons
Ghana ranks third in the world in the latest USGS estimate. Manganese mining in Ghana is mainly linked with the Nsuta area, one of the country’s oldest mining centres. The mineral is important for exports, jobs and industrial revenue. Ghana’s sharp rise in output has made it one of Africa’s strongest manganese-producing countries.
4. Australia – Around 1.6 Million Metric Tons
Australia holds fourth place in manganese production. The Groote Eylandt Mining Company operation in the Northern Territory is one of the country’s most important manganese assets. Australia also has large manganese reserves, giving it long-term mining strength. Its production faced disruption earlier due to cyclone damage, but operations have been recovering.
5. Brazil – Around 800,000 Metric Tons
Brazil ranks fifth among the largest manganese-producing countries. The country has manganese deposits in states such as Pará and Mato Grosso do Sul. Manganese is used in Brazil’s steel sector and also supports mineral exports. Although Brazil produces less than the African leaders, its large reserve base gives it strong future potential.
6. India – Around 790,000 Metric Tons
India is one of Asia’s major manganese producers. Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka are important manganese-producing states. The mineral is mostly used in steelmaking, ferroalloys and battery-related applications. As India’s infrastructure and steel demand keep rising, manganese remains an important strategic mineral for the country.
7. China – Around 700,000 Metric Tons
China ranks seventh in mine production. Major manganese resources are found in provinces such as Guangxi, Hunan and Guizhou. However, China’s domestic output is not enough for its large steel and battery material industries. This is why China imports significant quantities of manganese ore from countries like South Africa, Gabon and Ghana.
8. Malaysia – Around 410,000 Metric Tons
Malaysia is among the notable manganese-producing countries in Asia. Its production was reported at around 410,000 metric tons in recent country-wise producer data, and the country has also developed a role in manganese alloy processing. Malaysia’s smelting and ferroalloy industry gives it importance beyond mining alone.
9. Côte d’Ivoire – Around 350,000 Metric Tons
Côte d’Ivoire, also known as Ivory Coast, ranks among the top manganese producers in Africa. USGS estimates its 2025 manganese-content production at about 350,000 metric tons. Important manganese mining areas include Bondoukou, Guitry, Kaniasso and Lagnonkaha. Its exports mainly serve steel-producing markets.
10. Mexico – Around 285,000 Metric Tons
Mexico is a notable manganese producer in North America. The Molango region in Hidalgo is one of the country’s best-known manganese areas. Mexico’s production is smaller compared with South Africa, Gabon or Ghana, but it remains important for regional supply and industrial use. Recent production data places Mexico’s manganese output close to the 285,000-tonne level.
Final Words
Manganese is one of the quiet pillars of the industrial world. South Africa leads by a wide margin, while Gabon, Ghana and Australia form the next major group. Brazil, India, China, Malaysia, Côte d’Ivoire and Mexico complete the top 10. In 2026, these countries continue to support global steelmaking, alloy production and the rising demand for battery-related minerals.
