Cameroon’s cocoa achieves global recognition while boosting export readiness

The National Cocoa and Coffee Board (ONCC), in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), has completed a three-day training program for 35 cocoa export inspectors in Douala. Running from June 24 to 26, 2024, the session focused on advanced sampling techniques, quality control protocols, and warehouse management specifically tailored for export-grade cocoa storage facilities.

According to UNIDO’s chief technical advisor, Didime Olivier Tchoumi, this initiative aims to enhance the competitiveness of Cameroon’s cocoa and coffee on global markets. The training is part of the PICS-Cameroon project, supported by Japanese funding.

This development comes at a pivotal moment for Cameroon’s cocoa industry. In February 2024, the country secured a gold medal at the 10th edition of the Cacao of Excellence Awards, held alongside the prestigious Chocoa Trade Fair in Amsterdam. The competition evaluated 191 samples from 45 origins worldwide, assessing quality, sustainability practices, and flavor profiles. Only 50 lots received recognition, with Cameroon’s entry—sample number 167—earning the top prize in the Africa & Indian Ocean category.

This follows Cameroon’s bronze medal achievement in 2023, signaling a clear upward trend in quality and competitiveness. The recognition highlights Cameroon’s growing reputation as a producer of fine and flavor cocoa, where premium pricing is driven by exceptional taste, authenticity, and sustainable farming practices rather than bulk commodity standards.

The gold medal not only boosts Cameroon’s standing in high-end chocolate markets but also encourages increased investment in traceability systems, technical training, and cooperative structuring. These elements are crucial for translating quality improvements into tangible economic benefits for local producers, ensuring sustainable growth throughout the cocoa value chain.