Cameroon and Algeria are deepening their economic collaboration, with a focus on agricultural exports and strategic investments that promise to unlock new trade opportunities between the two nations.
High-level talks pave way for expanded cooperation
The momentum behind Cameroon-Algeria economic ties gained significant traction during a productive meeting on July 8, 2026, when Cameroon’s Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, received Abdallah Boukemmache, Algeria’s ambassador to Cameroon, accompanied by Abdel Khemane, CEO of Algeria’s state-owned holding company MADAR—the country’s second-largest economic group.
MADAR, which employs over 6,000 people across 11 sectors and 14 subsidiaries, plays a pivotal role in Algeria’s economy, particularly in tobacco, vehicle manufacturing, spare parts, and agro-industry. Notably, the group is the nation’s top importer of bananas and coffee, making it a key partner for Cameroon’s agricultural exporters.
Agri-food sector takes center stage
During the discussions, Abdel Khemane outlined MADAR’s commitment to strengthening ties with Cameroonian businesses by importing key products such as bananas and coffee, while also exploring opportunities for substantial investments in these and other sectors. The initiative aligns with Cameroon’s economic diversification goals under President Paul Biya’s leadership.
« My visit to Cameroon is part of a broader effort to forge partnerships with local enterprises, particularly in high-potential sectors like banana and coffee production, as well as other areas that align with Algeria’s strategic priorities. Given MADAR’s financial strength, we’re well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to Cameroon’s economic growth,» Khemane stated. He also emphasized the importance of South-South cooperation, a principle shared by both nations.
Trade indicators signal strong growth
Bilateral relations, already robust in politics and commerce, are set to receive a major boost with the upcoming fifth session of the Cameroon-Algeria Joint Economic Cooperation Commission in Yaoundé. Ambassador Boukemmache revealed that negotiations are underway for over 15 agreements spanning various economic sectors, with concrete steps being taken to implement them.
« These agreements go beyond mere signatures—we’ve come with MADAR’s leadership to turn intentions into action. Our goal is to enhance trade flows by importing Cameroonian goods rather than exporting to Cameroon, while also investing directly in the country’s economy,» the ambassador explained. He highlighted several key indicators of progress:
- The weekly flight frequency between Algiers and Douala has increased to four flights.
- Algerian consular services in Yaoundé have issued over 150% more visas.
- Cameroon’s exports to Algeria surged by more than 107% between 2023 and 2024.
Expanding beyond bananas and coffee
While banana and coffee trade negotiations are well advanced, Minister Mbarga Atangana also introduced other high-potential sectors to the Algerian delegation, including cocoa and cotton. Khemane confirmed MADAR’s readiness to invest in these areas, not only for importing raw materials but also for local processing.
Two critical working sessions were scheduled in Douala on July 9, 2026—one with the National Cocoa and Coffee Board (ONCC) and the Interprofessional Cocoa and Coffee Council (CICC) for coffee discussions, and another with the Haut Penja Plantation Company (PHP) for banana trade. The Algerian side expressed a strong desire for immediate export operations to commence without further delays.
Upcoming business forum to solidify ties
Before concluding the meeting, Ambassador Boukemmache announced plans for a high-profile business forum in Cameroon, featuring a large delegation of Algerian entrepreneurs. Led by the head of Algeria’s employers’ federation, the event will further cement the two countries’ commitment to translating partnership intentions into tangible economic outcomes, offering promising prospects for Cameroonian businesses.
