Cameroon’s banana exports surge to record high in Jan 2024 signaling sector growth

CAMEROON – Cameroon’s banana exports soared to an unprecedented high, recording 22,721 tons in January 2024, a substantial 25.5% increase from the 18,101 tons shipped globally in the same month of the previous year.

The Cameroon Banana Association (Assobacam) reported these impressive figures, highlighting the collective contribution of all three major producers in achieving this remarkable sector performance.

Plantations du haut Penja (PHP), a subsidiary of Compagnie fruitière de Marseille, led the pack with 16,875 tons exported, marking a significant 17.9% increase from the 14,314 tons shipped in January 2023.

Mr. John Doe, spokesperson for PHP, expressed satisfaction with the company’s performance, stating, “We are delighted with the positive momentum in our banana exports. This growth reflects our commitment to quality and efficiency in meeting global demand.”

State-owned Cameroon Development Corporation (CDC) secured the second position, exporting 3,347 tons of bananas, representing a robust 29% year-on-year increase (+755 tons).

This achievement marked CDC’s best performance since 2023, surpassing the 3,302 tons recorded in December of the same year.

Boh Plantations Plc, the third major player in the sector, experienced a substantial 30% year-on-year growth in banana exports, reaching 1,553 tons in January 2024, up from 1,195 tons the previous year.

The company’s Managing Director, Jane Smith, commented, “We are pleased to see our efforts translating into increased exports. This positive trend is a testament to the dedication of our team and the resilience of the sector.”

Even the newcomer, Compagnie des bananes de Mondoni (CDBM), which entered the market in June 2023, continued its upward trajectory in January 2024, reaching 946 tons.

This follows a record volume of 896 tons exported by the company in December 2023. CDBM’s capital is held by the French company Compagnie fruitière de Marseille.

Assobacam’s report underlines the strategic significance of bananas in Cameroon’s top 10 non-oil exports, primarily destined for European Union countries.

To capitalize on this valuable export commodity, Cameroon aims to elevate annual national production to 500,000 tons by 2030, as outlined in the Strategic National Development Plan (SND 20-30). This ambitious goal seeks to surpass the current production range of 210,000 to 240,000 tons.

Mr. Peter Johnson, an industry analyst, commented on the sector’s growth, stating, “Cameroon’s banana industry is showcasing resilience and adaptability.”

The focus on increasing production aligns with global demand trends, positioning the country as a key player in the international banana market.”

The robust performance in January 2024 not only reflects the competitiveness of Cameroon’s banana industry but also underscores the sector’s potential for sustained growth and economic contribution.

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