Cameroon is participating in the 62nd edition of the Paris International Agricultural Show (SIAP) from February 21st to March 1st, 2026. This year, the country is showcasing its key products, including cocoa, coffee, and Penja pepper, to boost exports and promote the expertise of its producers.
According to a source within the Chamber of Agriculture, Fisheries, Livestock and Forests of Cameroon (Capef), which is coordinating the national participation, the Cameroonian stand also features pumpkin seeds and various seasonings. Penja pepper, grown in the Moungo region, enjoys international recognition, particularly due to the support of the French Development Agency (AFD), which assisted with its certification in 2013. This certification significantly impacted the sector, with the price per kilogram increasing from 2,500 FCFA to a range of 14,000 to 20,000 FCFA, thereby stimulating investment and creating jobs for over 2,000 people.
Cocoa remains a major pillar of Cameroonian exports. In 2024, revenue from cocoa and its derivatives exceeded 1,000 billion FCFA, thanks to rising global prices and strong demand, especially in Europe. The cocoa sector, with a production of 266,725 tons for the 2023-2024 season, has even surpassed oil in terms of its contribution to national exports. However, analysts predict a potential price decrease due to an expected global surplus in production for the 2025-2026 season.
Cameroonian coffee is also experiencing a recovery, with a marketed production of 11,637 tons in 2025, a 10% increase representing a value of 3.5 billion FCFA, more than triple the previous levels. This performance is mainly due to Robusta, a variety for which Cameroon is favorably positioned in the international market. Cameroon's participation in SIAP 2026 is not limited to promoting its products. It also aims to establish sustainable trade partnerships and secure market opportunities, with the goal of increasing export revenues and strengthening the presence of Cameroonian products in international markets. The Cameroonian strategy relies on differentiation, certification, and quality improvement to ensure the sustainability of income in the agricultural sectors.
The Agricultural Research Institute for Development (IRAD) is also representing Cameroon at SIAP 2026, showcasing export-ready innovations, including Arabica coffee, biscuits made from potato, cassava, rice and maize flour, and various processed agri-food products.
