At farewell audience: Trade minister, outgoing EU Ambassador review cooperation.

Discussions between both officials touched on trade relations between Cameroon and the EU.

The meeting provided an opportunity for Minister Mbarga Atangana and H.E. Châtaigner to discuss on areas where bilateral cooperation has produced tangible results, particularly in the agricultural sector. They also discussed the quality and competitiveness of Cameroonian cocoa and coffee.

The exchanges also addressed the European Union Deforestation Regulation, EUDR, which has become an important consideration for agricultural commodities destined for the European market.

For Cameroon’s cocoa and coffee sectors, compliance with the regulation requires stronger mechanisms for traceability, sustainability and responsible production.

While the new requirements present challenges for exporters and producers, they could also provide an opportunity to consolidate the reputation of Cameroonian products and reinforce their access to demanding international markets.

The two officials further explored possibilities for broadening Cameroon-EU cooperation beyond traditional trade relations. Investment and the local processing of natural resources emerged as areas with significant potential.

Such an approach is consistent with Cameroon’s objective of structurally transforming its economy, by moving beyond the export of raw materials towards greater domestic processing and value addition.

The officials said over recent years, Cameroon and the EU have worked together to improve the quality of these two strategic export commodities. 

According to the exchanges, this cooperation has contributed to a significant turnaround in the international positioning of Cameroonian cocoa and coffee.

Products that previously faced restrictions and automatic discounts on international markets are now increasingly recognised for their quality and competitiveness.

The progress, it was said, is seen as one of the concrete achievements of Cameroon-EU cooperation in the agricultural trade sector.

The banana sector was also cited as another example of successful collaboration. Cameroonian bananas have strengthened their position on international markets, with improvements in quality contributing to the country’s reputation as a reliable supplier.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3884 of Thursday August 20, 2026