The economic partnership between Cameroon and Algeria has reached a new milestone, marked by a productive meeting on July 8, 2026, between Cameroon’s Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, and Algeria’s Ambassador to Cameroon, Abdallah Boukemmache. The ambassador was accompanied by Abdel Khemane, CEO of MADAR Holding, Algeria’s state-owned economic giant and the nation’s second-largest conglomerate.
With over 6,000 employees across eleven subsidiaries and fourteen investments—spanning tobacco, automotive components, and agro-industry—MADAR Holding also holds a dominant position in Algeria’s food sector. Notably, it is the country’s top importer of bananas and coffee, two key products that Cameroon produces in abundance. The timing of this high-level dialogue aligns with Cameroon’s push for economic diversification under President Paul Biya’s leadership.
Abdel Khemane outlined his mission: « My visit aims to forge strong ties with Cameroonian businesses by importing high-demand products like bananas and coffee, while also exploring substantial investments in these and other sectors. Given MADAR Holding’s financial strength, we’re committed to working closely with Cameroonian authorities to identify opportunities that benefit both nations. » His approach reflects a broader South-South cooperation ethos shared by both countries.
Cameroon and Algeria’s already robust economic and political relations are set for a significant boost with the upcoming fifth session of the joint economic cooperation commission, scheduled to take place in Yaoundé. Ambassador Boukemmache highlighted the depth of ongoing negotiations, revealing that over 15 agreements are under review. « These aren’t just formalities, » he emphasized. « We’ve come with concrete proposals—led by MADAR Holding—to accelerate trade flows between our nations. The focus is on importing Cameroonian goods rather than exporting to Cameroon, backed by direct investments in local sectors. »
Early indicators underscore the momentum:
- Air connectivity: The Algiers-Douala route now operates four weekly flights.
- Visa facilitation: Algerian consular services in Yaoundé have issued over 150% more visas compared to previous years.
- Trade growth: Cameroonian exports to Algeria surged by more than 107% between 2023 and 2024.
While bananas and coffee remain the primary focus of negotiations, Minister Mbarga Atangana also presented Algeria with opportunities in cocoa and cotton—two pillars of Cameroon’s economy. Abdel Khemane confirmed MADAR Holding’s readiness to invest in both sectors, not only for importing raw materials but also for local processing, creating added value for Cameroonian producers.
Two critical working sessions are scheduled for July 9, 2026, in Douala: one with the National Cocoa and Coffee Board (ONCC) and the Interprofessional Cocoa and Coffee Council (CICC) to discuss coffee exports, and another with the Haut Penja Plantations (PHP) to finalize banana trade arrangements. The Algerian delegation has urged swift implementation, seeking to begin exports immediately without bureaucratic hurdles.
Closing the meeting, Ambassador Boukemmache announced plans for a high-profile Algerian business forum in Cameroon, led by the country’s top private sector leader. This event will serve as a platform to translate strategic intentions into tangible partnerships, with expectations of substantial benefits for Cameroonian entrepreneurs.
