In a proactive effort to open new markets for Cameroonian cocoa through shorter supply chains, Commerce Minister Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana reached out to several international chocolate industry leaders in November 2024, including Dr Hae-Jung Jung from South Korea.

Dr Jung recently accepted that invitation and carried out a working visit to Cameroon, which culminated in a session at the minister’s office on June 5, 2026.

Responding to the minister’s request to increase the value of Cameroonian cocoa beans on the global market—especially in emerging economies—Dr Jung exceeded expectations by declaring that his company, which operates in China and other nations, could purchase half of the country’s 300,000-ton annual cocoa output. State-of-the-art laboratory analyses had already verified the outstanding quality of Cameroonian cocoa, prompting Dr Jung’s trip.

Beyond cocoa, Dr Jung indicated his willingness to help structurally transform Cameroon’s economy through substantial investments. He is seeking 100-hectare plots per site to establish industrial parks using cutting-edge Korean technology, similar to his projects in Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, and Guinea.

Among the first initiatives is the relocation of a factory producing melamine and porcelain tableware as well as kitchen utensils. Dr Jung also expressed interest in social-sector investments, notably healthcare. His commitment to Cameroon follows a proven continent-wide strategy.

The minister thanked his guest for the encouraging visit, which he said could support the import-substitution policy championed by President Paul Biya. He highlighted Cameroon’s institutional stability, abundant natural resources, and energetic youth. Both sides agreed to expedite concrete implementation of these projects.

Dr Jung’s strong profile, international references, and sincere approach—after more than a year’s deliberation since the minister’s invitation—open the door to serious, large-scale investment in the Cameroonian economy.