Market Trends of Agriculture In Cameroon
Growing Consumer Preference for Locally Produced Fruits and Vegetables
Increased awareness of health and well-being across various social media platforms has boosted the demand for fresh fruits and vegetables in Cameroon. It is estimated that Cameroonians spend nearly 16% of their income on fruits and vegetables. As people in the country recognize the link between healthy food and well-being, they are increasingly choosing fruits and vegetables as dietary alternatives. This rising health consciousness has also led to a growing consumption trend for off-season fruits, often met through increased imports.
Significant fruits and vegetable crops with potential for market growth in Cameroon include potatoes, tomatoes, onions, okra, peppers, bananas, pineapples, watermelons, mangoes, avocadoes, melons, and peaches. The increase in fruit and vegetable production in the country reflects the rising demand. According to the FAOSTAT database, fruit production increased to a million metric tons in 2022, representing a 6.2% growth from 2019.
The government and various NGOs are working to improve market access for local farmers, ensuring they can reach consumers more effectively. These efforts include the development of better infrastructure and transportation networks.
The growing consumer preference for locally produced fruits and vegetables in Cameroon supports both health and the local economy. With continued support from the government and community initiatives, the local agriculture sector has the potential to thrive, ensuring consumers have access to fresh, high-quality produce while benefiting local farmers and the economy.
Cereal crops Driving the Growth of the Agriculture Market
Cereal crops dominate Cameroon's agricultural market, with maize being the primary crop, followed by rice, sorghum, and millet. According to FAOSTAT, maize accounts for over 57.2% of local cereal crop production. In 2022, Cameroon produced 2,200 thousand metric tons of maize. However, the agriculture sector faces challenges due to climatic conditions and limited knowledge of modern farming practices.
Government efforts to enhance agricultural production and projects like the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) aim to promote cereal crop cultivation and improve rural populations' well-being. These initiatives are expected to drive growth in Cameroon's food crop market.
Since the deregulation of agricultural marketing, Cameroon's cereal crop market has developed significantly. Producers, traders, and intermediaries now interact freely, allowing greater flexibility in marketing produce. The government permits farmers to choose their markets, both domestically and internationally. This flexibility ensures that farmers can sell their commodities internationally if domestic prices are unfavorable. This approach is expected to boost exports and benefit farmers, contributing to market growth during the forecast period.
Cameroon's cereal crop market, particularly maize production, is crucial to the region's agriculture. With ongoing government support, improved market dynamics, and favorable conditions, the sector is positioned for significant growth, benefiting farmers and the broader economy.
