Tobacco in Cameroon

The government faces increasing pressure from anti-tobacco activists to adopt stricter anti-tobacco laws

As concerns over the consumption of tobacco grow, especially with regards to the under-age and younger generations, the Cameroonian government has been facing increasing pressure from anti-tobacco activists to adopt stricter anti-tobacco laws. Indeed, the non-application of existing laws has led to a proliferation of smoking among the younger generation and/or under-age children.

The fight against illicit trade intensifies as officials are increasingly better equipped

In an effort to curb illicit trade, the government intensified its fight by training customs officials and launched the second phase of Operation “Halte au Commerce Illicite”, known as HALCOMI, following the success of the first phase. Under HALCOMI, government officials embarked on a nationwide campaign and control of goods, included but not limited to alcoholic drinks and cigarettes.

International brands lead tobacco, while domestic players remain noticeably absent

International brands led tobacco in 2017, while local players remained noticeably absent as a result of entry barriers such as high initial investment costs. Despite facing stronger competition from its peers, British American Tobacco continued to lead retail volume sales of cigarettes in 2017 due to the popularity of its flagship brands, Lambert & Butler and Benson & Hedges.

Street vending is the most popular distribution channel, although formal retail channels are increasingly offering tobacco products

Street vendors remained the most popular distribution channel for tobacco products in 2017. This comes as no surprise given the fact that they are found almost everywhere and at all times of day.

Tobacco is anticipated to record positive constant value growth in spite of declining volume sales over the forecast period

Tobacco is anticipated to record positive constant retail value growth in spite of declining volume sales over the forecast period as a result of the entry of additional economy and standard brands catering to the price-sensitive, lower-income consumer base. Retail volume sales of cigarettes are expected to contract over the forecast period as consumers adopt healthier lifestyles and become more aware of the dangers of smoking and the related diseases.

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