China is set to deliver a shipment of rice and wheat to Cameroon in May 2026 as part of a food aid package worth more than 1.6 billion CFA francs. The shipment will transit through the port of Douala, following talks held on April 27 between Territorial Administration Minister Paul Atanga Nji and Chinese Ambassador to Cameroon Xu Yong. ### The shipment includes around 1,630 tonnes of rice and 880 tonnes of wheat, according to Cameroonian authorities. Logistics and distribution arrangements were among the main issues discussed during the meeting. Authorities have not yet officially identified the final beneficiaries of the donation. ### The aid comes as Cameroon remains heavily dependent on cereal imports, particularly rice, which has become one of the country’s most widely consumed staple foods. Demand remains strong in major cities as well as inland regions, driven by population growth, urbanization and changing consumption habits. Despite efforts to increase domestic production, local supply remains insufficient to meet demand. ### China ranked fourth among Cameroon’s rice suppliers in 2024 with a 10.2% market share, according to the Foreign Trade Report published by the National Institute of Statistics. Pakistan led with 36.6% of imports, ahead of India at 23.9%. Beyond rice, China remained Cameroon’s largest supplier overall in 2024, accounting for 22.2% of total imports. It also became the country’s second-largest export market, mainly through purchases of crude oil and liquefied natural gas. ### Beijing’s donation comes within the framework of an already extensive bilateral economic relationship. While Cameroonian authorities presented the aid as a sign of support, questions remain about its actual impact and the identity of the beneficiaries in a country facing rising food prices and supply disruptions in regions affected by insecurity and population displacement. ### Some analysts say the shipment may provide short-term relief without addressing Cameroon’s deeper food security challenges. The country continues to rely heavily on international markets to meet its cereal needs despite significant agricultural potential. ### During the April 27 meeting, Paul Atanga Nji conveyed Cameroon’s gratitude to China on behalf of President Paul Biya. The minister added that logistics and distribution teams were already preparing operations to ensure rapid delivery once the shipment reaches Douala. The priority distribution zones have not yet been disclosed. ### ### Patricia Ngo Ngouem ###