Cameroun-Algeria economic ties gain momentum with strategic partnerships
The economic partnership between Cameroun and Algeria is reaching new heights, as high-level discussions pave the way for expanded trade and investment opportunities. A key meeting on July 8, 2026, between Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, Cameroon’s Minister of Trade, and Abdallah Boukemmache, Algeria’s Ambassador to Cameroon, highlighted the deepening collaboration between the two nations.
Abdel Khemane, CEO of MADAR Holding—Algeria’s second-largest state-owned economic group—joined the ambassador to explore avenues for mutual growth. With over 6,000 employees across eleven sectors, including tobacco, automotive, and spare parts, the Holding also dominates Algeria’s agro-industrial landscape as the leading importer of bananas and coffee. This visit underscored Algeria’s eagerness to strengthen trade ties with Cameroon, aligning with President Paul Biya’s economic diversification strategy.
Agri-food sector at the heart of new opportunities
During the discussions, Abdel Khemane emphasized Algeria’s commitment to sourcing key Cameroonian agricultural products. « My mission is to foster partnerships with Cameroonian businesses by importing high-demand products like bananas and coffee, while also exploring substantial investments in these and other promising sectors, » he stated. The Holding’s financial strength positions it as a major player in Cameroon’s economic expansion.
Algeria’s trade relations with Cameroon have already shown remarkable progress. Trade volumes surged by 107% between 2023 and 2024, while visa issuances by Algeria’s Yaoundé consulate rose by over 150%. Air connectivity has also improved, with weekly flights between Algiers and Douala now totaling four.
Beyond bananas and coffee: diversifying cooperation
The Algerian delegation proposed expanding partnerships beyond the two flagship sectors. Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana seized the opportunity to showcase other high-potential industries, including cocoa and cotton. Abdel Khemane confirmed MADAR Holding’s readiness to invest in both exporting these products to Algeria and establishing local processing facilities.
Two critical meetings were scheduled for July 9, 2026, in Douala: one with the National Cocoa and Coffee Board (ONCC) and the Interprofessional Cocoa and Coffee Council (CICC), and another with the Haut Penja Plantations Company (PHP) for banana-related exports. The Algerian side expressed a strong desire to expedite these operations without further delays.
A forum to cement economic collaboration
In a final announcement, the Algerian Ambassador unveiled plans for a high-profile business forum in Cameroon. Led by Algeria’s leading business federation, the event aims to bring together a robust delegation of Algerian entrepreneurs. This initiative reflects the shared determination of both countries to translate partnership intentions into tangible economic outcomes, benefiting Cameroonian businesses across multiple sectors.