By Penn Vera Sirri
BUEA, Cameroon – Cameroon’s Ministry of Trade has emphasised the government’s dedication to fostering free enterprise and enhancing youth involvement in the commercial sector. This initiative aligns with directives from President Paul Biya’s swearing-in speech delivered on November 6, 2025. Minister Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana conveyed this message, urging the public, especially young people, to recognise and take advantage of the various opportunities available in commerce.
The Ministry of Trade highlighted the legal framework established to support these opportunities, asserting that individuals and corporate entities can engage in commercial activities across the nation as long as they comply with existing laws and regulations. He cited Law No. 2015/018, which asserts the freedom to conduct business in the country, and Law No. 2016/004, which outlines the conditions for foreign trade activities.
The statement detailed that while many goods are free for import and export, certain items related to morality, public security, health, and the environment are exceptions and are subject to specific restrictions. For those interested in engaging in foreign trade, the Ministry clarified that the only requirement is registration in an official database of importers and exporters, a process facilitated by submitting necessary documents and paying a modest registration fee of 45,000 CFA francs.
This registration typically takes between 48 and 72 hours to process at the Directorate of Foreign Trade or at regional Ministry offices. Minister Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana further encouraged youth to invest actively in the commercial sector as a means of creating wealth and generating jobs, especially with the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which provides access to a vast market of nearly 1.3 billion consumers.
To further support this initiative, the Ministry has directed its specialised services, such as the Directorate of Domestic and Foreign Trade, to offer effective, personalised assistance to all interested individuals, ensuring seamless access to both national and international trade avenues.
