Rice, Pasta and Noodles in Cameroon

PROSPECTS

Pasta enjoys rising demand

Dried pasta became increasingly popular in Cameroon 2018. It is being produced locally in Cameroon and sold via all distribution channels, from open markets to traditional stalls and modern grocery retailers.

Rice remains a key choice

Cameroonian consumers continued to view rice as a major staple during 2018. However, lower-income consumers tend to choose unpackaged rice, which is not covered by Euromonitor International’s research, while more affluent households are more inclined to purchase packaged rice.

Noodles is niche

Noodles remained a niche in Cameroon in 2018, despite the availability of products in open markets and via importers. Instant noodle pouches remained the only type available and demand was low due to the popularity of rice and new interest in pasta.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

International players remain highly competitive

International players enjoy a strong presence in rice, pasta and noodles and they have succeeded in consolidating their market shares. In retail value share terms, The GB Foods and NGM International are set to lead rice in 2018, while a French company’s Cameroonian subsidiary, Panzani Cameroun, is projected to top pasta.

Rice sees innovation

International players facing increasing competition from local manufacturers have tried to innovate with a range of flavoured rice products that cater to the demand from upper-income households. For example, perfumed rice gained interest among local consumers, although such brands carry prices that are too high for lower-income consumers, who remain highly price-sensitive.

Local brands increase their penetration

As rice and pasta have become fully integrated staples in home cooking, local players are being encouraged to develop their presence and offer. The performance of domestic manufacturers is strongest in pasta, while some local players have started to package rice imported from Asia.

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