Cameroon is taking a major step toward developing its organic agriculture sector with a new draft law submitted to Parliament on 10 November, 2025.
The bill aims to structure a sector that has long operated informally, despite its strong potential for export earnings and rural income growth.
For many years, farmers across the country have produced organic cocoa, coffee, honey, pepper, fruits, vegetables, shea butter and other crops, but without a recognised national framework. This lack of regulation has limited their access to high-value international markets, where strict certification, traceability and quality standards are required.
The government’s push is backed by global trends. Citing figures from the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) and the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM), the authorities note that the global organic market has grown sharply over the past 40 years and is now valued at around €136 billion. This, they say, highlights the commercial opportunity for Cameroon if it can meet international rules.
The draft law clearly defines organic production in the country. It covers crops, livestock, aquaculture, beekeeping and forestry, and promotes farming methods that protect natural ecological balances, limit synthetic chemicals and exclude genetically modified organisms. These definitions would form the foundation of a credible national organic label.
The bill also responds to environmental challenges. The National Observatory on Climate Change (NOCC) estimates that climate-related agricultural losses from 1980 to 2022 reached FCFA 6.71 trillion, representing more than 24% of Cameroon’s GDP. By encouraging more sustainable and climate-friendly practices, the government believes organic farming can help protect rural livelihoods.
However, Business in Cameroon notes that success will require more than just a law. Cameroon still needs strong certification and accreditation systems, reliable laboratories, clear standards and effective inspection and traceability mechanisms. Small-scale farmers—who form the bulk of producers—will need technical support to adapt to the new rules and benefit fully from the regulated market.
If these tools are put in place, the new framework could open premium export markets, create better income opportunities for farmers and position Cameroon as a competitive player in the booming global organic sector, while also strengthening the resilience of the country’s agriculture.
Jude Viban
