Arabfields, Maleeka Kassou, East, West & Central Africa Agriculture Correspondent — Cameroon’s banana industry delivered a strong performance during the first five months of the year, with export volumes rising sharply despite seasonal weather challenges that traditionally weigh on production.

According to industry data, banana exports reached 106,447 tonnes between January and May, representing a 19.9% increase compared with the same period a year earlier. The gain of more than 21,000 tonnes highlights the resilience of a sector that remains one of the country’s most important agricultural export industries.

The growth was largely driven by the country’s leading producers, which expanded shipments even as dry-season conditions reduced output potential in several growing areas. Improved irrigation systems and better farm management practices helped companies maintain production levels and meet international demand.

For workers in the banana-growing regions of Littoral and Southwest Cameroon, the strong export campaign has provided a welcome boost. At packing stations near production zones, employees report sustained activity as exporters continue to fulfill orders destined mainly for European markets.

“We expected a more difficult season because of the weather, but the farms have remained productive,” said a supervisor at a banana processing facility near Douala. “The investments made over the last few years are starting to show results.”

The largest contribution came from the country’s leading producer, which significantly increased its export volumes. Other operators also posted notable gains, reflecting broader momentum across the sector. Industry observers say the performance demonstrates the growing ability of producers to adapt to climatic constraints while improving efficiency.

The export rebound is particularly significant because it follows a period of restructuring within the industry. Market participants note that producers have focused on strengthening operations, modernizing plantations and improving logistics in order to remain competitive on international markets. Earlier in the year, January exports alone climbed by 36%, setting a positive tone for the months that followed.

Bananas remain a valuable source of foreign exchange earnings for Cameroon. In 2025, export revenues from the sector reached approximately CFA 67.7 billion, underscoring its importance to the national economy and rural employment.

Looking ahead, analysts expect export volumes to remain on an upward trajectory if favorable market conditions persist. Based on current performance, annual shipments could exceed 250,000 tonnes by the end of the year, supported by investments in irrigation, plantation management and transport infrastructure. Continued demand from European buyers is also expected to support growth.

However, experts caution that weather variability, rising production costs and competition from Latin American exporters could still affect future results. Even so, current trends suggest that Cameroon’s banana industry is entering a period of renewed expansion, with producers well positioned to strengthen their presence in international markets over the coming years.