Cameroon Takes Bold Steps to Curb Illegal Gold Trade

The government has convened a high-level meeting to tackle the rampant issue of gold trafficking, which has cost the nation billions in lost revenue.

Cameroon is stepping up efforts to combat the illicit gold trade that has drained its coffers. A pivotal meeting was held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at the Ministry of Commerce’s conference hall, bringing together key stakeholders to address this pressing concern.

Government Unveils Comprehensive Strategy Against Gold Smuggling

Under the leadership of the Acting Minister of Mines, Industry, and Technological Development, Professor Fuh Calistus Gentry, senior officials from Customs, Tax, Treasury, mining agencies, and other government bodies gathered to discuss strategies for enhancing gold traceability and restructuring the gold value chain.

The discussions focused on strengthening inter-agency coordination to improve tax collection, dismantle informal networks, and boost state revenues from gold exploitation. Participants emphasized the need for a unified approach to ensure transparent governance of the mining sector.

This initiative follows the government’s intensified campaign to regulate mineral resource exploitation and clamp down on illegal activities in the gold industry. The move comes in response to alarming findings from the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), which exposed a massive discrepancy in gold exports.

Massive Revenue Losses Prompt Urgent Action

According to EITI reports, while Cameroonian customs recorded only 22 kilograms of gold exports, over 15 metric tons of Cameroonian-origin gold were declared upon arrival in the United Arab Emirates. This blatant smuggling has resulted in an estimated loss of over 2,000 billion FCFA over five years, including 165 billion FCFA in direct tax revenue.

The government’s new measures aim to close loopholes in the gold supply chain, ensuring that all transactions are properly documented and taxed. Officials are determined to reclaim lost revenues and restore integrity to the mining sector.

The ongoing efforts reflect Cameroon’s commitment to fostering a transparent and accountable mining industry, positioning the country for sustainable economic growth.