Cameroon: Minister of Trade Advocates for Increased Support to Cocoa-Coffee Sector

The Minister of Trade of Cameroon has advocated for increased support for the cocoa-coffee sector during a recent conference. He emphasized that these crops are essential for the country's economy, representing a major source of income for many farmers. This statement comes at a time when Cameroon seeks to strengthen its position in the international cocoa market, which is already threatened by challenges such as increased competition and price fluctuations.

Regarding prices, the latest data from ONCC indicates that the price of cocoa is currently 3,227 FCFA/kg CIF and 3,149 FCFA/kg FOB. For arabica coffee, prices are 3,660 FCFA/kg CIF and 3,516 FCFA/kg FOB (source: ONCC). These prices show some stability, but producers remain concerned about production costs and profitability.

In West Africa, Cameroon stands out for its willingness to improve the traceability and sustainability of its cocoa production. Initiatives like the renewal of the agreement between ONCC and Cooko GmbH aim to strengthen the traceability of cocoa beans, a crucial aspect to meet the growing demands of European markets (source: Financial Afrik).

Regarding derivatives, the market for cocoa butter and powder also remains under pressure. Cocoa producers must navigate an environment where profit margins are increasingly tight due to high input costs and sustainability requirements. The demand for processed products, such as cocoa butter, continues to rise, but producers must ensure they meet quality and sustainability standards to remain competitive.

Finally, the European regulation on deforestation (EUDR) is a concern for Cameroonian exporters. While Cameroon is working on its documentary preparation to meet the requirements of this regulation, it is crucial for stakeholders in the cocoa-coffee sector to be well-informed and prepared to avoid potential sanctions or restrictions in the European market (source: EUDR Commission).