The Cameroonian government has officially thrown its weight behind the “Organic Cocoa 1000” (Cacao Bio 1000) program, an ambitious initiative designed to revitalize the nation’s cocoa sector.
By combining chemical-free organic farming practices with fair trade standards, the program aims to boost local producers’ incomes and significantly enhance the market value of Cameroonian cocoa on the international stage.
A major milestone for this initiative was reached on Monday, October 19, 2026, with the signing of a strategic partnership agreement between the Unité Moderne de Production de Cacao d’Excellence (UMO.PRO.CAO.E.SCOOPS) cooperative of Ayos and Protect First AG, a Liechtenstein-based company.
Represented respectively by Executive Council President Mveng Ateba Sébastien and CEO Ralf Van Deest, the two entities established a shared, long-term vision to meet strict international standards for quality, sustainability, and traceability.
The selection of the Ayos cooperative highlights a track record of quality and dedication, as the organization previously earned international recognition with a bronze medal at a prestigious competition in Amsterdam.
Partnering with Protect First AG allows the cooperative to leverage a business model centered on zero chemical inputs and Fair Trade certification, ensuring that environmental sustainability goes hand-in-hand with commercial viability.
Chaired by the Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, the signing ceremony emphasized the government’s strong alignment with initiatives that prioritize producer compensation. The government views this partnership as a pioneering framework that can be replicated across the nation, driving structural improvements and raising the standards for cocoa production nationwide.
Ultimately, Cameroon aims to solidify its position as a global leader in high-quality cocoa, with target market prices potentially reaching double those of competing major producing countries.
As Minister Mbarga Atangana noted during the ceremony, the country’s vision is clear: to ensure Cameroonian cocoa remains firmly at the top of the world market.
