In a bold move to expand market opportunities for Cameroonian cocoa through direct trade channels, the country’s Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, reached out in late 2024 to key figures in the global chocolate industry, including South Korea’s Dr. Hae-Jung Jung. Dr. Jung responded by scheduling a working visit to Cameroon, culminating in a productive meeting at the ministry on June 5, 2026.

Responding to the minister’s push to elevate Cameroonian cocoa on the global stage—especially in emerging markets—Dr. Jung went further than expected. His company, which already operates in markets like China, has pledged to purchase up to half of Cameroon’s annual cocoa output, estimated at 300,000 tons. Advanced laboratory tests confirming the premium quality of Cameroonian cocoa provided the scientific backing for this ambitious commitment.

Dr. Jung’s vision extends beyond cocoa. He outlined plans to drive Cameroon’s economic transformation through large-scale industrial investments. His model, successfully implemented in Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, and Guinea, involves setting up high-tech industrial parks on 100-hectare plots. Early initiatives include relocating a melamine and porcelain tableware manufacturing plant, along with kitchen utensils production. Additionally, he expressed keen interest in investing in healthcare infrastructure, reinforcing his commitment to Cameroon’s long-term development.

The Trade Minister welcomed the promising developments, noting their alignment with the government’s import-substitution policy under President Paul Biya. He highlighted Cameroon’s strong institutional stability, abundant natural wealth, and vibrant young workforce as key advantages. Both parties agreed to fast-track project implementation.

The industrialist’s sterling reputation, global track record, and genuine engagement—after over a year since the minister’s initial outreach—signal strong potential for substantial economic growth in Cameroon.