In an effort to enhance the competitiveness of Cameroonian SMEs both locally and internationally, the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises, Social Economy, and Handicrafts (MINPMEESA) recently held a workshop on May 22-23, 2024.
This event aimed to assist 100 SMEs in standardizing their production processes, labeling, and packaging, while also raising awareness about the opportunities presented by the Cameroon-EU Economic Partnership Agreements (EPA).
The workshop, which took place in Yaoundé, focused on two main areas: providing support and raising awareness. The primary goal was to strengthen the capabilities of 100 SMEs in key productive sectors such as agro-food, cotton-textile-apparel, and forest-wood.
By improving their adherence to standards and quality, these SMEs can become more competitive, secure their position in the national market, and explore new international markets.
The event was aimed at informing and sensitizing SMEs about the opportunities they could leverage through the Economic Partnership Agreements. Specifically, SMEs in the selected priority sectors had their deficiencies in standards and quality diagnosed. Existing Cameroonian standards were disseminated to encourage their adoption by SMEs.
The workshop also provided support in acquiring good practices in production, labeling, and packaging according to Cameroonian standards, and aimed to improve the quality of SME production to enhance their presence in potential markets.
The workshop was targeted at SME promoters in the agro-industry (food, cosmetics), cotton-textile-apparel, and forest-wood sectors. MINPMEESA aims to support 100 SMEs, including 76 that had requested assistance from MINPMEESA for product analysis by LANACOME and 24 identified for support in complying with Cameroonian standards regarding production processes, labeling, and packaging.
Experts from LANACOME, ANOR, MINEPAT, and MINPMEESA covered eight modules during the workshop:
- The Cameroon-EU Economic Partnership Agreements and their implications for Cameroonian SMEs
- The role of EPAs in modernizing and transferring technology for SME development
- Standards for packaging, labeling, and products (agro-food and cosmetics, wood products, textile products)
- The product certification process in Cameroon
- European standards and certification
- Good hygiene practices within a production unit using the 5M method
- The quality of “Made in Cameroon” products in domestic and international markets and
- The impact and challenges of manufacturing processes in the agro-food industry.
This initiative aims to improve the standards and quality of Cameroonian SMEs, making them more competitive and opening up new market opportunities. As SMEs adopt better practices and comply with national and international standards, they can expect to see increased market access and growth potential.
On another note, the Minister of SMEs, Social Economy, and Handicrafts will hold a press conference regarding the 1st edition of the African Forum on Social and Solidarity Economy (FORA’ESS) on Friday, May 24, 2024, at 11:00 AM in the conference room of l’immeuble de l’Emergence.
For those seeking assistance in registering a business in Cameroon, OpenHub Consulting, a company specializing in business creation services, is available to provide support. You can find more information and get assistance setting up your business by visiting their website at OpenHub Consulting.
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