After a slowdown in 2024, Cameroonian ports rebounded in 2025, handling a total of 23.7 million tonnes of cargo, a 3% increase. This growth, driven by new infrastructure and enhanced maritime security, reinforces Cameroon’s role as a logistics hub in Central Africa, with the Douala Autonomous Port contributing 6.2% to the national GDP.
After a 2024 marked by a slowdown, Cameroonian ports recorded a strong rebound in 2025. Total cargo traffic reached 23.7 million tonnes, representing a 3% increase compared to 2024, according to Cameroonian port authorities. This positive growth is largely attributed to the commissioning of new port infrastructure and the strengthening of maritime security measures, which have helped streamline operations and reassure trading partners.
It should be noted that the reforms needed for these ports to truly contribute to the socio-economic development of their countries must be actively supported and carried out with great rigor. This will ensure that ports can play a significant role in the economy and in driving national growth.
Kwami Ossadzifo WONYRA, Economist
Cameroonian officials emphasize that this trend is an encouraging signal for the country’s economic development and for Cameroon’s strategic position as a logistics hub in Central Africa. In fact, activities at the Douala Autonomous Port (PAD) contribute approximately 6.2% annually to Cameroon’s GDP, according to an impact study on national wealth creation equivalent to over 1,365 billion CFA francs per year.
It must be said that the Port of Douala plays a very important role in integration at the Central African level.
Kwami Ossadzifo WONYRA, Economist
With this recovery, Cameroon aims to strengthen its port capacities, attract more investment, and enhance the competitiveness of its foreign trade essential steps to support national economic growth.
