Cameroon and Mali are strengthening their industrial cooperation. Ministers Fuh Calistus Gentry and Moussa Alassane Diallo discussed strategies for local processing and value creation. A meeting that paves the way for concrete projects aimed at boosting bilateral trade exchanges.
Cameroonian Minister of Mines, Industry, and Technological Development, Fuh Calistus Gentry, received his Malian counterpart, Moussa Alassane Diallo, on March 26, 2026, in Yaounde. This bilateral meeting provided an opportunity to discuss industrialization strategies and ways to strengthen economic integration between the two countries, with a particular focus on local processing and value creation in African economies.
The discussions we had were conducted within the framework of three principles set by the President and Head of State, General Assimi Goïta: namely, respect for Mali’s sovereignty, respect for Mali’s strategic choices and those of its partners, and the defense of vital interests in the decisions made.
Moussa Alassane Diallo, Minister of Industry and Trade
The discussions highlighted the challenges of local processing and value creation, which are essential to reducing dependence on raw materials. On the bilateral level, trade flows between Cameroon and Mali remain very modest: according to data, Cameroonian imports from Mali totaled only around $21,590 in 2023, across a wide range of categories such as pharmaceuticals ($6,280), food products ($4,400), and beverages (approximately $5,250). These figures illustrate the untapped economic potential and underscore the importance of coordinated strategies to develop robust value chains between the two countries.
Mali is currently a consumption-driven country. We must transition from being a country of consumption to a country of production, which necessarily involves the industrialization of the productive base of our economy. That is the first aspect. The second aspect on which we placed particular emphasis concerns all issues related to the financing of productive investments and major projects, notably in infrastructure.
Moussa Alassane Diallo, Minister of Industry and Trade
For Mali, diversifying exports and strengthening its industry remain a priority: in the first quarter of 2025, exports increased by 26%, reaching 525.9 billion CFA francs, with a significant share achieved within West Africa. Cameroon and Mali have agreed to develop robust industrial policies focused on local processing, employment, and integration into regional value chains. The goal is to implement concrete projects to accelerate economic cooperation and stimulate trade for the benefit of the populations of both countries.
