Market Research in Cameroon, Africa
Lying on the Gulf of Guinea is the country of Cameroon, sandwiched between Nigeria and the Central African Republic. Its name derives from the Portuguese ‘Camaroes’ (meaning shrimps). Some people view it as “Africa in miniature” due to its diverse geographical and cultural makeup. It is a lower to middle-income country with a population of over 25 million (2018)
The main languages of Cameroon are French and English. The dominant religion is Christianity. Its capital, Yaounde, lies in the south-central part of the country. As with any other tropical region, Cameroon is humid year-round. It has lower temperatures in mountainous areas.
Neighborhoods
Besides the capital Yaounde, one other region to take note of is Douala. The quality of life in both cities borders on average, with Douala having more expensive living costs.
The most prominent threat to safety in Cameroon is the ongoing attacks by Boko Haram in the north. These attacks have led to a rise in deaths and frequent refugee situations.
Trends
The agriculture sector represents more than half of the country’s revenue. It employs 60 percent of the population. Cameroon’s main cash crops range from traditional food crops to crops for export. Agriculture employs at least one adult in the average Cameroonian household. Half of Cameroon lives in a state of poverty amid a rising population level.
Most of the country’s citizens eat large quantities of fruits and vegetables since they have, over time, linked health and well-being to healthy foods. This rise in demand has increased the production of healthier choices of food and crops.
Benefits and strengths in the market
Cameroon has the advantage of excellent climatic conditions, resulting in fertile soil for the growth of staple food crops. Another benefit is supportive government policies. Farmers and traders have freedom of movement, which has resulted in the development of the market. Sometimes producers and farmers cannot sell their products on the local market. The government does not prevent them from doing so on the international market.
Consumer Base
Despite the challenges faced, Cameroon remains one of the most stable countries. Its strategic location gives it access to the Nigerian market. It also has potential consumers from other neighboring regions. Its location also serves as a hub for major prospective future projects.
Imports from the U.S., Europe, and China dominate some essential local goods. Cameroonians associate foreign products with quality. Middle-class people are the primary consumers in this market.
Reasons to grow your business in the market.
Progress happens in stages, and Cameroon as a country is no exception. Foreign investments in this country will solve lots of problems. Such investments contribute to developments in infrastructure, transportation, and energy. Anything that can upgrade and take the country further is welcome.
With thorough market research, a business will benefit by setting roots in Cameroon. The country needs investment, and the market is ripe.
About Market Research in Cameroon
Cameroon is a market with promise. Choosing the right research group is vital for your business. A company with a reliable network of experienced research experts is the best choice—our researchers will use focus groups to assist you in making the best decisions.
We use Qualitative, Quantitative, and Strategy Research, Surveys, and other data analysis tools to help you decide on your investment approach. You will receive the necessary insight to offer the right services and products. Your goal is to meet the needs of Cameroonian consumers, and we will help you reach it.