Gabon to Implement $17 Carbon Levy for Transport Emissions

Starting February 15, Gabon will introduce a carbon emissions levy targeting the aviation and maritime sectors. Priced at $17 per tonne of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e), the measure is expected to encompass 3–5 million tCO₂e of annual emissions, as per Africa Carbon Solutions, which collaborated in designing the initiative.

A cargo ship cruising along Gabon's coastline, with a commercial airplane flying above. AI generated picture.

The levy will apply to 50% of the emissions generated by aircraft and vessels entering or leaving Gabon. Funds collected will be managed by government-appointed entities to support sustainable projects aimed at enhancing the nation’s environmental and economic resilience.

From 2026, companies will have the opportunity to offset up to 30% of their emissions through carbon initiatives developed within Gabon, giving priority to local projects. The levy may also increase in the future to align with evolving international climate frameworks.

Authorities clarified that this levy is not a tax on Gabonese citizens or domestic businesses. Instead, it redirects the environmental obligations of international transport companies already adhering to global systems such as the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and Corsia, ensuring these efforts benefit Gabon’s sustainability goals.

The program will operate under the Africa Sovereign Carbon Registry, modelled after a successful scheme implemented in Djibouti. Djibouti's carbon initiative has already funded 40 sustainability projects, including a notable blue carbon initiative attracting global investment, showcasing the potential impact of such programs.

This initiative reflects Gabon’s commitment to sustainability under its new leadership. Following the political transition in 2023, the government, led by General Brice Oligui Nguema, has intensified efforts to harness the country’s resources for sustainable development and global environmental contributions.