Cameroon advances major investment reform to boost economic transformation
A significant investment reform, championed for over a decade by President Paul Biya, has reached a pivotal stage with the presentation of a draft law to the National Assembly for ratification. This initiative aims to modernize the legal and institutional framework for investment of Cameroon, aligning with the National Development Strategy 2020-2030 (SND30) to foster stronger, sustainable, and inclusive growth.
Since the 2013 investment incentives law came into effect, Cameroon has recorded notable progress: 424 investment agreements signed, representing nearly 7,504 billion CFA francs in projected investments and the anticipated creation of 168,000 jobs.
These outcomes reflect the growing effectiveness of a system driven by the Head of State’s vision for structural economic transformation through productive investment.
The new legislation introduces key innovations. It establishes a single reference framework for all investment incentives, integrating provisions for special economic zones and public-private partnerships (PPPs) into one unified legal structure.
This harmonization is designed to enhance clarity, security, and attractiveness for both domestic and foreign investors.
Another major change is the extension of incentives to public enterprises investing in strategic sectors such as health, education, agriculture, tourism, energy, and transport.
By granting public entities access to similar fiscal and customs advantages as private investors, the government aims to accelerate infrastructure modernization and improve essential services.
Through this reform, President Paul Biya reaffirms his commitment to positioning investment as a central driver of Cameroon’s economic transformation.
If adopted, the law is expected to attract increased capital, boost job creation, and reinforce the nation’s role as an economic hub in Central Africa.
Eric NZEUHLONG
