Cameroon will showcase its agricultural produce at the 43rd edition of MACFRUT, one of the world's leading fruit and vegetable trade fairs, scheduled from 21 to 23 April 2026 in Rimini, Italy. The participation aims to help the country secure foreign partnerships in packaging technology, processing and financing to strengthen its agricultural sector.
The initiative was announced during a press briefing held at the conference hall of the Chamber of Agriculture, Fisheries, Livestock and Forestry (CAPEF), where officials outlined preparations for Cameroon’s participation in the international event.
The briefing was chaired by CAPEF Secretary General Tanyi Jacob Tachot and brought together representatives from Gabon, the Central African Republic and Chad, as well as economic operators and members of the media. According to the organisers, the exhibition is expected to attract thousands of exhibitors and more than 50,000 visitors from around the world, providing a platform for producers and exporters from Central Africa to present their products and explore commercial partnerships.
Preparations are ongoing, including the mobilisation of economic operators and the reservation of a 64-square-metre exhibition stand for the Central African delegation.
The 2026 edition will also feature a symposium focusing on agriculture, food security, rural exodus and irregular migration in Central Africa. The discussions aim to highlight the role agriculture can play in addressing economic challenges linked to rural migration while strengthening the visibility of Central African agricultural stakeholders on the global stage.
Quality standards, packaging and logistics highlighted
Product quality was among the main concerns raised during the briefing. Officials said the agricultural products selected for exhibition will comply with international standards, noting that participating producers are using biological inputs supplied by Italian partners.
Packaging was also identified as a major challenge within the national value chain. Participants pointed to a technological gap in packaging solutions compared with some competing countries. The exhibition is therefore seen as an opportunity to establish partnerships with specialised companies in packaging technology and product processing.
Logistics costs were another issue raised by operators seeking to export agricultural goods. Participants called for stronger state support, particularly to help cover freight transport costs and facilitate access to international markets.
Export promotion and search for partnerships
Speaking after the briefing, CAPEF Secretary General Tanyi Jacob Tachot said the initiative aligns with the chamber’s mission of promoting “Made in Cameroon” products both domestically and internationally.
“One of our missions is to promote the ‘Made in Cameroon’ brand at home and abroad. This fruit and vegetable fair in Italy is a key platform, and this year we have mobilised many participants to showcase our produce,” he said.
He added that the event will allow producers to seek partnerships in packaging, processing and financing while presenting Cameroon’s agricultural potential to international buyers.
According to the organisers, economic operators interested in joining the delegation can contact CAPEF for further information.
Mercy Fosoh