Chinese group plans large agricultural investment in Cameroon

The Chinese public group Nanning Agricultural Development Group plans to invest around 88 billion FCFA in sugar and rice production in Batouri, Cameroon. The project includes creating large plantations and a factory capable of producing 60,000 tons of sugar annually.

Project is still in the study phase

The company has issued a tender notice, seeking a specialized firm to study the project’s feasibility. This study will cover financial and technical needs, land conditions, and administrative procedures. The Chinese group is willing to spend up to 78 million FCFA on this initial assessment.

Timeline for submissions and study

Interested companies have until November 5, 2026, to submit proposals. The selected firm will have 60 days to complete the study, including on-site investigations in Cameroon. The 88 billion FCFA figure represents the estimated project cost, though no financing or land leases have been confirmed yet.

Land requirements and infrastructure

The Chinese group intends to lease approximately 6,667 hectares for sugar cane and an additional 200 hectares for rice. The project also involves building a sugar refinery, rice processing facilities, and staff housing.

Previous sugar projects in the region

Cameroon has seen several attempts at sugar production in the East region. In 2012, the government partnered with an Indo-Cameroonian company, Justin Sugar Mills, for a similar project. However, the agreement later collapsed, and the government eventually withdrew from the initiative.

Other investors and ongoing interest

In 2017, a Cameroonian-Brazilian-Italian company, Orient's Sugar and Industry SA, also planned a sugar project in the area. While this company started with corn and soybean cultivation, its sugar complex was never completed. Despite these past efforts, the new Chinese project does not appear to be a direct continuation of earlier initiatives.

Chinese company’s background

Nanning Agricultural Development Group is part of a larger corporate network controlled by Nanning’s public authorities. A Chinese publication reported in September 2026 on plans to establish a subsidiary in Cameroon, though its legal status remains unconfirmed.