English is not widely spoken but the government is increasing requirements for English to be spoken in the country, including naming English an official language in the Transition Charter of September 2023.  Companies normally prepare all sales materials in French, so English-speaking companies should be prepared to hire translation services should there be negotiations with the government and local partners.  With Gabon joining the Commonwealth in 2022, English use will likely increase over time, particularly in the business sector.

Trade Promotion & Advertising

Some of the major news organizations in Gabon are:

L’Union (newspaper)

B.P 3849 Ancien Sobraga

Libreville, Gabon

Tel. +241-11-73-58-61

 https://www.union.sonapresse.com/

Gabon Television (television)

B.P. 150 Boulevard Thriomphale

Libreville, Gabon

Tel/Fax +241-11-73-25-00

TV+ Chaine 3 (television)

B.P. 8334 NKEMBO

Libreville, Gabon

Tel. +241-11-72-92-04

RTN (television)

B.P. 9563, Okala

Libreville, Gabon

Tel. +241-11-76-88-63

Pricing

Prices in Gabon are higher than other countries in the CEMAC region, and international and domestic transportation costs are a major factor in the cost of selling goods.

Sales Service/Customer Support

Good customer service and follow-up services can confer a significant competitive advantage in the local market, particularly in sectors that have traditionally been dominated by monopolies or preferential government treatment. Where monopolies have limited competition, customer service has been known to be poor as the companies do not need to have robust client-retention strategies and services.