Cameroun and Algeria forge stronger economic ties with strategic investments
The economic cooperation between Cameroon and Algeria is gaining unprecedented momentum, as high-level discussions and concrete investment plans reshape trade dynamics between the two nations. A pivotal meeting held in early July 2026 brought together Cameroon’s Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, and Algeria’s Ambassador to Cameroon, Abdallah Boukemmache, alongside Abdel Khemane, CEO of Algeria’s state-owned Holding MADAR—the country’s second-largest economic group.
With a workforce of over 6,000 employees across 11 subsidiaries and 14 partnerships spanning industries like tobacco, automotive, and spare parts, Holding MADAR plays a dominant role in Algeria’s agro-industrial sector. Notably, it stands as the nation’s top importer of bananas and coffee, making it a critical ally in Cameroon’s export-driven ambitions. The timing of the visit aligns with Cameroon’s push for economic diversification under President Paul Biya’s leadership.
« My mission in Cameroon is to explore avenues for deepening collaboration with local businesses, particularly through importing key Cameroonian products such as bananas and coffee, while also making substantial investments in these and other high-potential sectors. The financial capacity of Holding MADAR enables us to act decisively, subject to Cameroon’s regulatory framework,» Khemane stated, emphasizing a shared vision of South-South cooperation.
Bilateral ties poised for growth
Cameroon and Algeria have long maintained robust political, economic, and trade relations. However, the upcoming fifth session of the Joint Economic Cooperation Commission in Yaoundé is set to inject fresh energy into their partnership. Ambassador Boukemmache revealed ongoing negotiations for over 15 agreements, with immediate action plans to accelerate bilateral trade—notably by importing Cameroonian goods rather than exporting to the country. « We’re not just signing agreements; we’re here to implement them. Holding MADAR’s participation underscores our commitment to boosting trade flows across multiple sectors,» he explained.
Recent signs of progress include the expansion of air connectivity between Algiers and Douala to four weekly flights, a 150% surge in Algerian visa issuances in Yaoundé, and a 107% increase in Cameroonian exports to Algeria between 2023 and 2024.
Expanding horizons beyond bananas and coffee
While bananas and coffee take center stage in current negotiations, Cameroon’s Minister of Trade took the opportunity to highlight other lucrative sectors ripe for Algerian investment. Cocoa and cotton—both pillars of Cameroon’s economy—emerged as key focal points. Khemane affirmed Holding MADAR’s readiness to invest in both exporting these raw materials to Algeria and establishing local processing facilities.
Next steps: concrete actions and business forums
Two critical working sessions were scheduled in Douala on July 9, 2026: one with the National Cocoa and Coffee Board (ONCC) and the Interprofessional Coffee and Cocoa Council (CICC) to expedite coffee trade, and another with the Haut Penja Plantations (PHP) to fast-track banana exports. The Algerian delegation’s priority is to initiate shipments without delay.
The dialogue culminated with Ambassador Boukemmache’s announcement of an upcoming business forum in Cameroon, led by Algeria’s leading employers’ federation. This event aims to mobilize a high-profile delegation of Algerian entrepreneurs, further solidifying the resolve of both nations to turn partnership pledges into tangible economic benefits for Cameroonian businesses.
