Cameroon: Commercial Cocoa Production Declines by Nearly 20% in 2025-2026

Context of Cocoa Production in Cameroon Commercial cocoa production in Cameroon has seen an alarming decline of nearly 20% for the 2025-2026 season, according to recent reports (source: Investir au Cameroun). This decline is part of a broader trend where Cameroonian cocoa exports have plummeted by 63% during the same period (source: Journal du Cameroun). This situation raises concerns about the sustainability of the cocoa sector, which is a pillar of the Cameroonian economy.

Prices of Cocoa and Derivatives Regarding prices, current quotations for cocoa stand at £4298/T on the ICE London market, with a 3.99% increase (source: ICE). Locally, the price of cocoa is 3208 FCFA/kg CIF and 3130 FCFA/kg FOB according to ONCC (source: ONCC). For coffee, the price of arabica is 4176 FCFA/kg FOB, while robusta is trading at 1978 FCFA/kg FOB (source: ONCC).

Impact on the West African Market The situation in Cameroon reflects similar trends in other cocoa-producing countries in West Africa. Indeed, reports indicate that the cocoa sector in West Africa is struggling to meet the new EU anti-deforestation regulations, which could exacerbate supply issues (source: Reuters). Local producers are facing increasing challenges to comply with these requirements, which could impact their profitability.

Derivatives and Coffee Cocoa derivatives, such as cocoa butter and powder, are also affected by this market dynamic. Prices for cocoa butter and mass/liquor are fluctuating, influenced by global demand and climatic conditions. Coffee producers, on the other hand, have observed a slight increase in robusta prices, which recorded a 0.66% rise (source: ONCC).

Documentary Preparation and Regulation It is essential to note that Cameroon is preparing to comply with the EU Deforestation Regulation requirements, although no certification has yet been obtained. Stakeholders in the cocoa sector are encouraged to prepare accordingly to meet international market expectations (source: Commission EUDR).

Conclusion The significant decline in cocoa production in Cameroon, coupled with increasing regulatory challenges, underscores the need for concerted action to revitalize the sector. Producers must adapt to the new market realities while ensuring the sustainability of their agricultural practices.