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New tax hike in Cameroon to curb China’s timber supply from central Africa

Posted on August 30, 2024 |

Central Africa’s main timber export hub is declining, with the Central African States Bank (BEAC) noting problems in Cameroon’s timber industry.

Cameroon exports large amounts of logs, sawn wood, plywood, and veneer to China and Vietnam through Douala port.

The Cameroonian government has raised export taxes and may ban log shipments from CEMAC countries by 2028.

Cameroon’s timber industry produced over 3.3 million meters of logs, mostly exported for primary processing to China, and Vietnam, and less to Western Europe.

From 2012 to 2023, Central Africa sent 4.2 million tonnes of timber products to Asia, shifting away from Europe due to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Exports of timber from Central Africa to the EU have fallen from $1.4 billion to $600 million.

European supply chains are now sourcing semi-finished timber products from South America and Southeast Asia instead of Central Africa.

The drop in exports shows a shift in global trade patterns and regional economic focus.

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