Cameroon Led Central Africa in FDI with FCFA 332Bln in Inflows in 2025

Cameroon has emerged as the leading destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in Central Africa, attracting CFAF 332 billion in inflows in 2025, according to a report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Despite a decline in FDI inflows across both the continent and the sub-region, Cameroon's performance has moved it ahead of Chad as the largest recipient of foreign investment. The country received USD 599 million in FDI during the year, equivalent to about CFAF 332 billion, down from USD 925 million, or CFAF 532 billion, in 2024.

Cameroon has led Central Africa in foreign direct investment (FDI) with FCFA 332Bln in inflows in 2025. This development matters as it highlights the country's attractiveness to foreign investors despite a decline in FDI inflows across both the continent and the sub-region. The report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) provides valuable insights into the trends and patterns of FDI flows in Africa.

The Central African region has been affected by a decline in FDI inflows, with a 21 percent drop from around USD 6 billion to USD 4.8 billion over the same period. However, Cameroon's performance has moved it ahead of Chad as the largest recipient of foreign investment in the sub-region. The country's attractiveness to foreign investors can be attributed to its business-friendly environment and favorable policies.

The report by UNCTAD highlights the importance of FDI in promoting economic growth and development in Africa. Despite the decline in FDI inflows, Cameroon's performance is a testament to the country's ability to attract foreign investment. The country's business-friendly environment and favorable policies have made it an attractive destination for foreign investors.

The emergence of Cameroon as the leading destination for FDI in Central Africa has significant implications for the country's economic development. Practitioners should take note of the trends and patterns of FDI flows in Africa and adapt their strategies accordingly. The report by UNCTAD provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing African countries in attracting foreign investment.