(Business in Cameroon) – Cameroon’s exports saw a strong boost in the third quarter of 2024, with cocoa products, rubber, and bananas leading the way. According to the Directorate General of Customs (DGD), cocoa paste exports reached 13,236 tons, bringing in CFA49.9 billion. That’s a big jump—59% more in volume and an impressive 218% increase in value compared to the same period last year.
The country also saw a surge in cocoa butter and oil exports, which more than doubled. These exports hit 6,982 tons and generated CFA25 billion, marking a 214% increase from last year. While customs didn’t give an exact reason for the boost, it could be linked to increased local production. Over the past three cocoa seasons, companies like Atlantic Cocoa, Neo Industry, and Africa Processing have set up new processing plants, contributing to the rise. Plus, cocoa bean prices hit a record high of CFA6,000 per kilogram this year, adding to the strong performance.
Rubber exports also played a key role in Cameroon’s export growth. The country shipped 16,839 tons of rubber, a 34% increase, bringing in CFA13.9 billion—up 63% from last year. Companies like CDC, Sud Cameroun Hévéa, and Hévécam helped drive this success.
Bananas, too, had a strong quarter. Cameroon exported 67,865 tons, a 73% rise compared to last year, generating CFA10.5 billion in revenue. The Banana Association of Cameroon (Assobacam) credits this success to four major producers: CDC, Plantations du Haut Penja (PHP), Compagnie des Bananes de Mondoni (CDBM), and Boh Plantations Plc. All these producers increased their output compared to 2023.
Cotton exports were also significant. Cameroon sold 36,244 tons of cotton on the international market, earning CFA42.9 billion. This marked a 32% increase in volume and a 28% rise in revenue compared to the previous year.
