Thirty-five cocoa export inspectors completed intensive training in Douala this week, marking a significant step toward enhancing Cameroon’s standing in the global fine cocoa market.

The National Cocoa and Coffee Board (ONCC), in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), organized a three-day workshop from June 24 to 26. Participants sharpened their skills in sampling techniques, quality control, and management of export cocoa warehouses. According to UNIDO senior technical advisor Didime Olivier Tchoumi, the initiative aims to elevate the quality standards of Cameroon’s cocoa and coffee exports to meet international market demands. This effort is part of the PICS-Cameroun project, funded by Japan.

Cameroon’s cocoa industry reached a major milestone in February 2026 when it secured the gold medal at the 10th edition of the Cacao of Excellence Awards, held alongside the prestigious Chocoa Trade Fair in Amsterdam. The competition evaluated 191 samples from 45 origins worldwide, focusing on quality, sustainability, and sensory profiles.

Out of the 191 submissions, only 50 received recognition from an international jury of sensory and industry experts. Cameroon’s sample, identified as lot number 167, claimed the top spot in the Africa & Indian Ocean category, demonstrating the country’s growing prowess in producing premium cocoa beans.

This gold medal follows Cameroon’s bronze win in 2023, reinforcing a positive trend in the quality and competitiveness of the country’s cocoa beans in the “fine and flavor” segment. Premium cocoa markets prioritize taste, authenticity, and sustainability, often commanding higher prices than traditional bulk cocoa.

Beyond the award itself, this achievement strengthens Cameroon’s reputation as a producer of exceptional cocoa, aligning with the increasing demand from high-end chocolatiers and specialty markets worldwide. The recognition could also spur further investment in traceability systems, technical training, and cooperative structuring—key factors in translating quality improvements into tangible economic benefits for local producers.