- The concept of the “Made in Cameroon” (MIC) was formally launched by the private sector five years ago to encourage local production, processing and consumption.
- Â Many business leaders including Cameroonian professionals who have returned from abroad are now betting on the “Made in Cameroon” (MIC) mark.
Cameroon, the West African country of 25 million people is highly dependent on imports. But Cameroonian industry is witnessing a growing trend of creating its’ own brand. The concept of the “Made in Cameroon” (MIC) was formally launched by the private sector five years ago to encourage local production, processing and consumption. Many business leaders including Cameroonian professionals who have returned from abroad are now betting on the “Made in Cameroon” (MIC) mark.
Cameroon’s business activities used to revolve around selling primary resources such as minerals, oil and timber. The new movement of MIC mark is expected to change this. Many outlets selling “Made in Cameroon” products have already sprung up in several cities across the country. From one store selling MIC products five years back, the number of such shops has gone up to 33. The objective is to strengthen Cameroon’s economy and promote “value-added” activities that create jobs and generate money. The Association of Ingenious Entrepreneurs of Africa (Asenia) has been formed to promote the movement.
Despite the enthusiasm in MIC, experts observe that the MIC product label suffers from major issues, such as the availability of finance, quality, cost etc. Quite often the products are more expensive than the imported goods. Entrepreneurs feel that government support is inevitable to succeed.
