Economy

Gov’t rallies stakeholders to tackle Palm oil shortage, secure supplies.

by Mercy Fosoh
10 Jun 2026 16:04
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Stakeholders during meeting

The government has through the Ministry of Trade convened key stakeholders in the palm oil sector to address a sharp decline in domestic supply and identify measures to secure market availability.
The move was announced following a meeting chaired by Minister of Trade Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana in Yaounde on June 2.

Representatives of government several ministries, the Cameroon Palm Corporation, SOCAPALM; producers, processors and interprofessional organisations attended the meeting.

Discussions focused on plans to increase national production and maintain supplies during the second half of 2026. In a statement published on Facebook after the meeting, the ministry noted that the international palm oil market is experiencing a real surge in prices.

“While at national level supply has collapsed spectacularly, falling below the symbolic threshold of 10,000 tonnes. This situation places processors and consumers in a position of great vulnerability at a time when domestic demand remains strong,” it said.

Exchanges also focused on the continued sale of palm oil in bulk through informal channels. Participants noted that the practice continues to affect the sector and reduces revenue generated through formal commercial activities.

According to the ministry, several resolutions were adopted during the meeting. Stakeholders agreed on the need to increase national production and support a fairer distribution of value across the supply chain, from producers to processors.

Participants also called for stronger links between different segments of the industry to improve exchanges, reinforce traceability and strengthen supply chains.

The Ministry of Trade said the government would also reinforce its role in assessing the capacities of operators active in the sector.

Participants also concluded that, given the pressure on domestic supply, significant imports of palm oil would be required during the second half of 2026 to ensure adequate supplies for the local market.

The meeting further resolved to establish technical committees to oversee the implementation of the measures identified. Strengthening cooperation among stakeholders across the palm oil value chain was also included in the roadmap adopted during the discussions.

According to the Ministry of Trade, the measures are intended to support production, improve coordination within the sector and help secure supplies for the domestic market.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3811 of Monday June 08, 2026