Cameroon: Agribusiness, the new foundation for economic growth
In recent years, Cameroon has decisively embarked on transforming its agricultural sector, aiming to shift from basic food and raw export production to a genuine value-added processing industry. This ambition, embedded in the National Development Strategy 2020-2030, is being realized through targeted public investments and incentive policies designed to modernize the agri-food value chain and reduce dependency on imports.
A central pillar of this strategy is the creation and revitalization of agro-industrial hubs.
The flagship project remains the South Region Agro-Industrial Pole (PAI-Sud), developed over more than 60,000 hectares.
Designed to attract private investors, this mega-project focuses on the large-scale production and processing of crops such as maize, soybeans, plantain, and palm oil. It symbolizes the commitment to achieving economies of scale and generating industrial employment in rural areas.
Simultaneously, the state has increased support for the local processing of agricultural raw materials.
Initiatives such as the construction and equipment of cassava, maize, and cashew processing centers in production basins are multiplying.
The goal is clear: capture a greater share of value domestically, combat post-harvest losses which can reach 30% for some products and supply the local market with quality finished goods.
The government has also implemented an incentivizing fiscal and customs framework. The adoption of the 2023 Finance Law, which exempts specific agricultural inputs and equipment from VAT, is one example.
These measures aim to improve the competitiveness of Cameroonian processing units against imports and attract private capital, both domestic and foreign.
Significant challenges remain: improving access roads to remote production areas, ensuring stable and affordable energy for industrial units, and further professionalizing producers to guarantee regular and standardized supply. However, the efforts undertaken are beginning to bear fruit.
There is growth in the number of small and medium-sized agri-food enterprises and a gradual diversification of “Made in Cameroon” products on shelves from infant flour and natural juices to canned goods.
By betting on agro-industry, Cameroon is not only pursuing economic growth and job creation.
It is also working to strengthen its resilience and food sovereignty in a regional and international context marked by price volatility and supply chain instability.
If sustained over the long term, this policy could profoundly reshape the country’s economic and rural landscape.
Gilbert FOTSO
