Manufacturing and Services


Agri-Fruit	With an abundant supply of raw materials (mangos, pineapples, bananas) the agri-fruit sector is a major outlet for agricultural production and a strong factor for intensifying activities and carrying out processing in outer lying rural areas Economists predict that this sector will record an average growth rate of 5% for period (2010-2020) as compared to 2% over past 10 years Focused development of fruit processing industry for local consumption and export will leverage the strengths of a strong agri-economy and significantly influence the $5.42 mln trade deficit Sector benefits from considerable government support within the Economic Partnership Agreement signed with the European Union through various incentives and competitiveness gains brought about by improved transport infrastructure and investment in manufacturing industries New businesses can benefit from significant tax incentives under the Cameroon Industrial Free Zone Act
Eco / leisure tourism	Cameroon possesses a variety of natural attractions, although no natural wonder that distinguishes Cameroon from its competitors, is apparent. However, the concept of Cameroon as an “Africa in Miniature”, due to the sheer variety of natural attractions, could serve as that unique selling proposition as opposed to focusing on one or two major attractions. Cameroon possesses a multitude of cultures and ethnicities and is rich in heritage Global demand for tourism in Africa is increasing, stimulated by 2010 World Cup, whilst estimated increase of 13% for Cameroon by 2035 There is potential for increased employment, due to the strong interdependencies between supporting services within tourism e.g. tour operators, guides, hospitality staff, restaurants etc. Government seeking to facilitate growth in this sector, through review of all tourism policies and development of incentives


Cement / Construction	Government’s increased infrastructure spending and supporting activity to achieve its Millennium Development Goals are driving demand for cement and other construction materials; imports are estimated at $49.8 mln and growing Construction sector currently accounts for 3.5% of GDP and is predicted to achieve an annual growth rate of 8% for period 2009 – 2015 Current estimated demand (213,000 tonnes) is twice that of supply Cameroon has significant deposits of limestone, marble, sand and other critical raw materials needed for production Major infrastructure projects in progress include: Kribi Deep Sea Port, Limbe Petroleum Yard, Trans-African Highway (Bamenda-Mamfe-Ekok-Nigeria Border), Nachtigal Hydro-electric Dam and Mbalam Iron Ore Mining Project
Wood Products	Export of processed timber estimated at $611.6 mln a year resulting in overall trade surplus of 609.47 mln; makes up 47.2% of manufactured exports Timber processing contributes approx 15% of the manufacturing labor market with over 100 saw mills, driers, woodworking shops and parquet flooring factories; 5000 additional jobs could be created This sector is highly beneficial to timber producers as a destination for raw materials; Improved processing of raw materials will increase competitiveness of construction industry (tourist lodges, housing construction, luxury furnishing of office spaces) Cameroon has massive tracks of timber plantations in the south stretching from east to west; Plantations are proactively managed according to ensure sustainability of raw materials

Opportunities

Manufacturing and Services