China's Presence and Regional Development in Cameroon

Cameroon, with its immense natural potential, its surface area of 475,442 km2 and its rapidly growing population (3%), has developed economic partnerships with several countries. This article analyzes China's presence and regional development in Cameroon. In our methodology, we took both a qualitative and quantitative approach to the Chinese presence in Cameroon and its impact on regional development. The survey was carried out among 98 large traders, 232 small traders and 335 consumers in the different regions (Douala, Yaoundé, Bafoussam, Bertoua), for a total of 665 respondents. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key players in Sino-Cameroonian cooperation: Political decision-makers, representatives of international organizations, managers of Chinese companies operating in Cameroon, representatives of NGOs and inhabitants of the selected regions. Our findings show that Chinese investment in Cameroon has reached some 2.5 billion dollars in recent years. China has invested heavily in the construction of roads, bridges, ports and airports. The Nachtigal hydroelectric power station, financed by China, is one of the largest projects underway. Chinese companies are involved in cobalt and iron ore mining. Huawei and in telecommunications and digital infrastructure in Cameroon. The ongoing China-backed Cameroon-Congo railroad project is a significant example of Chinese investment in the transport sector. In addition to direct investment, China has granted low-interest loans to Cameroon to finance infrastructure projects. China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) is one of China's largest oil companies and is very active in Cameroon. In 2007, CNOOC obtained exploration and exploitation rights for several offshore blocks in the Gulf of Guinea, particularly in the oil and gas-rich Kribi archipelago region. CNOOC is responsible for operating several blocks, including the Rio del Rey offshore block. The business practices of Chinese companies, often perceived as dominant, have put pressure on local businesses, particularly in the retail and building materials sectors. Concerns about the illegal exploitation of natural resources, such as deforestation, and working conditions in some Chinese companies have also arisen. Balanced and responsible management of Chinese investments could enable the country to take full advantage of these partnerships while minimizing negative impacts. Over 60.47% of the population is not satisfied with the quality of asphalt roads built by Chinese companies in Cameroon. Over 70% of the population is calling for a genuine bilateral operating agreement, with direct on-site processing in Cameroon. According to some estimates, almost 60% of the timber extracted in Cameroon is exported to China. The unsustainable exploitation of these natural resources has a direct impact on the living conditions and health of local populations. It also leads to the destruction of ecosystems and disrupts their overall functioning.