WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONWT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
28 August 2001
(01-4128)
Trade Policy Review Body
18 and 20 July 2001
TRADE POLICY REVIEW
Minutes of Meeting
CAMEROON
Addendum
Chairperson:  H.E. Mr. Pekka Huhtaniemi (Finland)
Page
ANNEX I ADVANCE WRITTEN QUESTIONS 3
ANNEX II RESPONSES BY THE DELEGATION OF CAMEROON 19WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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ANNEX I
ADVANCE WRITTEN QUESTIONS
HONG KONG, CHINA
Report by the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/87)IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR(5) Services
(ii) Financial services (pages 60 to 62, paragraphs 44, 45, 53 and 54)
Despite the fact that the banking sector has undergone dramatic changes and foreign capital
has high participation provided that it is locally registered, there is no commitment made on marketaccess and national treatment for this sector.  We would like to know whether Cameroon has any plan
to enter into commitment for this sector, given the ongoing reform under way and the success
obtained in restructuring the commercial banks.
We note that State-owned insurance companies have been undergoing privatization.  Foreign
companies may offer such services only if they establish a branch in Cameroon.  Again, there is no
commitment under the GATS.  We would like to k now more about the legal aspects for foreign
companies entering the market and encourage Cameroon to include the practice in its GATS
commitments.
(iii) Telecommunications (pages 63 and 64, paragraphs 57 to 60)
We appreciate the effort made by Cameroon in privatizing the telecommunications sector
with the licensing of mobile telephone providers.  We would like to know more about the relevant
requirements and conditions for participating in the market.  We would like to encourage Cameroon
to further liberalize and to make substantive commitments in its telecommunications market.
JAPAN
Report by the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/87)II. TRADE POLICY REGIME:  FRAMEWORK AND OBJECTIVES(4) Foreign investment regime
(i) Regulatory framework (page 23, paragraph 55)
According to footnote 37, Cameroon currently grants public-sector monopolies for petroleum,
energy, water, telecommunications, aluminium and cotton, even though all monopolies, except that
for aluminium, were scheduled to be privatized before the end of 2000.  Please explain the
perspectives for privatization in these sectors?  In particular, Japan would like to know the plan for
privatization in the telecommunications sector.WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE
(2) Measures directly affecting imports
(ii) Customs valuation and rules of origin (page 27, paragraphs 11 and 12)
While Cameroon formerly applied the Brussels Definition of Value (BDV), we understand
that the Government has now officially decided to apply the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement as
of the termination of the period of waiver from its obligations, which expired as of 1 July 2001.  What
is the current situation of its implementation?
(iii) Tariffs (page 30, paragraph 21)
The report states that only three non-agricultural products were bound at the time of the
Uruguay Round.  Japan would like to request Cameroon to expand its product coverage of tariff
bindings.  Please explain the plan for expanding product covering in the future.
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR
(2) Agriculture and forestry
(ii) Forestry  (pages 53 to 55, paragraphs 19 to 26)
According to paragraph 21, in order to encour age local value added and job creation, and to
ensure the supply of local wood for processing industries, exports of unprocessed logs have been
subject to export restrictions.  Are such export restrictions consistent with Article XI of the GATT?
What system has the Government adopted for the production and marketing control of wood?  Pleaseindicate the amount and the value of wood exported from Cameroon having neither licences for
felling nor export authorization.
(5) Services
(i) Overview  (page 60, paragraph 43)
We understand that Cameroon does not make any specific commitments in maritime transport
services.  Please explain why Cameroon must register the measures as MFN exemptions, even if this
does not have any legal value.
(iv) Transport (page 64, paragraphs 65 to 66 )
Can we understand that the sentence in paragraph 65, "Maritime transport is now open to any
transporter who is registered under Cameroonian or foreign law serving Cameroonian ports", means
that Cameroon does not have any limits on market access and national treatment, nor does it have any
measures which allow MFN exemption in the maritime transport services?  If so, please explain therelationship between that sentence and the existing measures stated in the list of MFN exemptions.WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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Comments on Cameroon's trade system based on the report by the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/87)
II. TRADE POLICY REGIME:  FRAMEWORK AND OBJECTIVES(2) Trade policy objectives
(ii) Sectoral trade policy objectives  (page 17, paragraph 26)
Japan fully shares the Cameroonian policy objectives for agriculture by focusing on ensuring
food security through increased agricultural production.  Such policy objectives are in line with
Japan's own policy on agriculture, which aims to ensure food security based on the domestic
production.
(3) Trade agreements and arrangements
(i) World Trade Organization  (page 18, paragraph 32)
We understand that Cameroon has announced that its basis for customs valuation would be
changed from the so-called BVD to the transaction value ( valeur transactionnelle ).  Thanks to such a
change, Japan believes that Cameroon will be able to establish a neutral, fair and transparent system
for customs valuation.  Japan requests that Cameroon continue its efforts to properly manage and
maintain such a system.
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE
(2) Measures directly affecting imports
(i) Procedures  (page 26, paragraph 8)
Japan welcomes the establishment of a single window for customs procedures, which became
operational in December 2000.  Japanese companies doing business in Cameroon are already enjoying
its benefit to some extent.  Japan considers, however, that further efforts by Cameroon are necessary
in order to avoid any delay of cargo and to reduce the time of procedures.
EUROPEAN UNION
Report by the Government (WT/TPR/G/87)IV. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MARRAKESH AGREEMENTS
The EU is aware of the difficulties encountered by the Cameroonian authorities in
implementing the Marrakesh Agreements.  Nevertheless, we would like to urge Cameroon to maintain
its commitment to the multilateral trading system, and particularly its efforts to implement the WTO
Agreements.  We are also aware of the fact that Cameroon, like other Members of the WTO in a
similar situation, needs substantial technical assistance in order to achieve this.  Lastly, we should liketo know what is Cameroon's position regarding the initiation of a new round of multilateral trade
negotiations and, especially, we should like to hear the views of the Cameroonian authorities on the
conditions required to facilitate effective participation by Cameroon (and the other Members of the
CEMAC) in these negotiations so that they are beneficial to developing countries.WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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Report by the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/87)
Summary observations
(2) Trade and investment policy framework (paragraphs 7 and 9)
The report indicates that "The authorities have expressed concerns about Cameroon's
implementation of the Agreements owing to a lack of information…".  In order to facilitate the
implementation of appropriate action, has Cameroon drawn up a precise inventory of its technical
assistance needs in areas relating to the WTO's activities?
According to the report, "trade between Came roon and its CEMAC partners is low compared
with the trade flows between Cameroon and its main  trading partners in Europe".  Could Cameroon
explain why its trade with CEMAC is low compared with third countries despite a generalized
preferential tariff?
(3) Trade and trade-related policies and measures  (paragraphs 11 and 21)
We note that only three tariff rates levied on non-agricultural products have been bound.
Does Cameroon share our view that this could lead to  a lack of confidence in the system on the part of
trade operators?  In this context, doesn't Cameroon think that binding of duties would only require
relatively little effort because it would not lead to a loss of customs revenue?  Has Cameroon anyplans to bind rates in order to restore the trade operators' confidence in the system?
We note with appreciation that Cameroon has taken certain measures to liberalize the services
sector.  It has, however, only bound its commitments for a small number of sectors under the GATS
Agreement.  Binding under the GATS Agreement w ould no doubt help Cameroon's efforts to attract
investment and modernize its services sector.  In this context, we would like to know what are the
Government's intentions regarding commitmen ts for liberalization of services sectors?
II. TRADE POLICY REGIME:  FRAMEWORK AND OBJECTIVES
(4) Foreign investment regime
(i) Regulatory framework  (paragraph 52)
The report states that Cameroon's Investment Code "established financial incentives in
exchange for minimal eligibility/performance requirements".  Could the Cameroonian Government
indicate what requirements these are?  Are they covered by the TRIMS Agreement?
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE
(2) Measures directly affecting imports
(vi) Contingency measures  (paragraphs 39 and 43)
The report notes that Cameroon has a legislative and regulatory framework for anti-dumping
or anti-subsidy measures and safeguards, but has not  notified it to the WTO.  Could Cameroon tell us
when these notifications will be made in order to meet its commitments?WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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(i) Procedures (paragraph 9)
The report by the Secretariat mentions that "Most imports" above a certain value are subject
to preshipment inspection.  We would like to know what criteria are applied by Cameroon in deciding
which imports should be subject to inspection.
(ii) Customs valuation and rules of origin (paragraph 11)
We note that Cameroon has undertaken to apply the Customs Valuation Agreement as of 1
July 2001.  Could Cameroon indicate whether the Customs Valuation Agreement is already applied in
practice, what is the relevant legislation, has it been notified to the WTO, and what are in fact the
procedures and implementing measures?
(iii) Tariffs (paragraph 19)
The high level of tariff escalation in certain industrial sectors, which is the result of the tariff
structure, results in a higher level of protection fo r certain industrial sectors than the customs tariff
itself would appear to indicate.  Could the Government inform us whether it intends to reduce this
tariff escalation, especially in industrial sectors producing semi-processed products.
(v) Import licensing, prohibitions, and other restrictions (paragraph 33)
The report notes that Cameroon has delayed for a period of two years the application of the
provisions on automatic import licensing in the Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures.  This
delay has now expired.  We would be interested to know whether Cameroon now applies the said
provisions of the Agreement on granting automatic import licences and what are the application
criteria?
Cameroon – like many other countries in fact – is not up to date with its notifications to the
WTO on import licensing procedures.  What measures does Cameroon intend to take in order to
remedy this situation?
(vii) Standards and technical requirements  (paragraph 47)
We note that Cameroon has encountered a number of difficulties in implementing the
Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT Agreement).  Has Cameroon approached the WTO
Secretariat with a view to receiving technical assistance in the form of manuals or training?  Are the
Cameroonian authorities in a position to draw up a list of TBT-related issues that require a special
technical assistance effort?
(viii) Government procurement (paragraphs 59, 61 and 65)
We welcome the Government’s interest in the Agreement on Government Procurement.  Is it
possible to obtain an idea of Cameroon’s plans regarding eventual accession to this Agreement?
We also congratulate Cameroon on its declared intention to fight corruption and favour
transparency.  Can Cameroon give us some more precise information on this question, on the
problems encountered in this area and on the steps the Cameroonian authorities consider necessary in
this respect?
The report refers to changes introduced by decree into Cameroon’s government procurement
legislation.  Is there only one law in Cameroon covering government procurement or are there
different texts according to whether the procurement is national or local for example?  We would alsoWT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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like to know, following these changes, what are th e new threshold values for government procurement
and what is the percentage of tenders that fall below this?
The report mentions the various commissions responsible for government procurement
decisions.  Who are the members of these bodies and what criteria are used to select them?
Are there any legislative provisions to allow an unsuccessful tenderer to question a decision
on government procurement and, if so, can foreign tenderers also have recourse to these?
(3) Measures directly affecting exports
(vi) Export assistance  (paragraph 83)
The report informs us that "the partial or total exemption of taxes and duties levied on goods
imported to produce goods for export is allowed".  Has the impact of such subsidies and their
consistency with the WTO’s rules been evaluated?
(4) Measures affecting production and trade
(ii) Protection of intellectual property rights (paragraph 93)
Could Cameroon indicate whether the term of protection for industrial designs is in fact
five years, as the second part of Table III.5 appears to show?  What measures are envisaged to extend
this period to 10 years, as required by the TRIPS Agreement, and when will such measures be taken?
IV. Trade policies by sector
(2) Agriculture and forestry
(i) Agriculture  (paragraph 10)
Could Cameroon explain how mu ch longer it intends to apply the agreement by the
association of Coffee-Producing Countries to retain temporarily 20 per cent of the coffee to be
exported?
(5) Services
(iv) Transport (paragraph 66)
The EU welcomes the reforms implemented by the Government in recent years in the ports
sector and shares its view that it is important to improve the efficiency of auxiliary land services.
Could the Cameroonian Government give us some details on the following:
- The extent and the conditions under which foreign capital can participate in the
privatization of ports and auxiliary services;
- which of the following services are concerned:  port services (pilots, tugs, repairs,
etc.), goods maintenance services (including terminals), warehousing and storage
services, customs clearance services, services related to container centres andwarehouses, maritime agency services and services related to the shipment of goods;
- legislative or regulatory amendments likely to speed up the reform?WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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CANADA
Report by the Secretariat of the WTO (WT/TPR/S/87)III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE
(2) Measures directly affecting imports
(vi) Contingency measures (paragraph 45)
Paragraph 45 states that, under the UDEAC Customs Code, a surtax may be imposed on
imports originating from countries that apply a surtax or high duties or grant less than MFN treatment
to goods from member States.  Please clarify if this measure is limited only to member States of the
UDEAC that impose a surtax or "high duties" on Cameroon or if it could apply to any WTO country
that maintains "high duties" on products originating in any of the member States.  What constitute
"high duties"?
IV. Trade policies by sector
(2) Agriculture and forestry
(i) Agriculture (paragraphs 9 and 17)
With reference to paragraphs 9 and 17 on agriculture, what measures does the Government
intend to take in order to improve the agricultural sector in the north of Cameroon (especially as
regards irrigation, desertification and deforestation)?
(4) Manufacturing (paragraph 37)
Paragraph 37 mentions that the textiles and apparel sector in Cameroon is geared mainly
towards domestic consumption.  Is the Government of Cameroon planning to help this sector take
advantage of the benefits offered by the United States Trade and Development Act of 2000?
(5) Services
(i) Overview  (paragraph 42)
According to paragraph 42, Cameroon did not participate in the WTO extended negotiations
on basic telecommunications services.  Given that the Government of Cameroon is making efforts to
liberalize and reform the telecommunications sector, what are Cameroon’s general goals and
objectives in the current GATS negotiations on telecommunications?
(ii) Financial services (paragraph 50)
According to paragraph 50, the Central Af rican Banking Commission (COBAC) shares
responsibility with Cameroon’s national ministries of finance for licensing new banks, and also
sanctioning credit institutions, revoking banking licences, and deciding on the liquidation of banks.
Please explain this bank licensing procedure and describe the process by which foreign banks canobtain a licence.WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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Report by the Government of Cameroon (WT/TPR/G/87)
III. MAJOR REFORMS
(2) Economic liberalization processes (paragraph 18)
According to paragraph 18, Cameroon has eliminated barriers and import/export licences.
Cameroon has, however, recently introduced some important measures in order to prevent the import
of BSE-infected meat which, in practice, involve two stages of authorization and payment of fees
even for countries not affected by BSE.  The ban on importing meat constitutes a non-tariff barrier on
imports and has led to a shortage of meat in Cameroon, as well as an increase in its price.  How does
Cameroon intend to proceed in order to lift these disguised non-tariff barriers?
The liberalization of the petroleum sector mentioned in paragraph 18 is noticeable.  However,
the new measures are aimed particularly at introducing a legal framework favourable to the Chad-
Cameroon pipeline project.  Observers consider that the new petroleum code continues to place a
great deal of emphasis on the powers of the  Société Nationale des Hydrocarbures (SNH).  Is the
Government of Cameroon going to ensure that petroleum revenue will be used to improve the welfareand development of the people of Cameroon (particularly with regard to health and education)?  If so,
how?
According to paragraph 18, an improved legal framework has been established in order to
oversee and supervise the electricity, port, aviation and telecommunications sectors.  Like the otheruseful measures taken, application will determine success.  How can such good measures be applied
in practice?
(3) Sectoral reforms
(1) Financial sector reforms
(a) Banks (paragraph 20)
Paragraph 20 refers to the Central African Banking Commission (COBAC), which supervises
the application of common banking regulations and has made a number of efforts to penalize banks
that do not respect the rules.  Despite this, the banking sector needs to be restructured and given newimpetus in order to provide the economy with effe ctive support.  How does the Government plan to
restructure this sector?
(b) Insurance  (paragraph 22)
With regard to paragraph 22, why has the foreign currency sector not yet been liberalized?
What does Cameroon intend to do to make foreign exchange services accessible and eliminate the
black market?
(4) Outlook for the Cameroonian economy
(2) Sectoral policies (paragraph 48)
According to paragraph 48, the Government has announced that primary school education is
free.  In fact, hidden charges mean that primary school is more costly than in the past.  Will measuresbe taken to ensure that primary schooling is truly free?WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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Additional questions
According to the latest budget (2001/2002) adopted by the National Assembly, Cameroon still
attaches greater priority to defence than to health, education and agriculture, which are the major
sectors for combating poverty.  How does Cameroon consider it will win the struggle against povertyby giving priority to defence?
The Forestry Revenue Security Programme (PSRF) has been presented as an effective inter-
ministerial coordination structure between the forestry and financial authorities.  Nevertheless, since
the introduction of the PSRF, collaboration between th e two authorities has been a failure.  What does
Cameroon intend to do to ensure that the collaboration is a success?
Supplemental question
Report by the Secretariat of the WTO (WT/TPR/S/87)IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR(5) Services
(iii) Transport (paragraph 64)
Paragraph 64 discusses the reforms that have been made to the port system in Cameroon.
Why, given the vast reforms and changes, are there still long waits for clearance through customs and
complaints that shipments take far longer than the statutory 15 days to get through customs?
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE
(2) Measures directly affecting imports
(i) Procedures
In paragraph 8 of page 26, the Secretariat's report mentions that "it has been estimated that
through the use of a single window 80 per cent of all import formalities would be completed with a
maximum delay of 48 hours for imports and six hours for exports."  We would appreciate it if the
Cameroonian Government could confirm whether this estimate actually matches the current situation,
and provide statistics on this matter, if available.  We also take this opportunity to ask the
Cameroonian authorities to increase the percentage of import formalities completed within 48 hoursfor imports.
It is our understanding that imports undergo both a preshipment inspection and customs
procedures at the shipment's arrival, which may involve some level of redundancy.  Is the
Cameroonian Government planning to simplify it s customs procedure at the port of arrival,
particularly for imports that have already undergone preshipment inspection?
The Korean Government has been informed by some Korean businessmen exporting goods to
Cameroon that preshipment inspections in Korea are sometimes stricter than general ones conducted
in other exporting countries.  Korea would apprecia te it if Cameroon could address this issue so as to
ensure that all exporters enjoy the same treatment when it comes to preshipment inspections, pursuant
to the spirit of non-discrimination as stipulated in Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Preshipment
Inspection.WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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(iv) Other charges affecting imports
Paragraph 30 on page 31 of the Secretariat's report says that "All goods, including imports,
are subject to VAT" and that "The general rate is 17 per cent plus a communal tax of 10 per cent ofthe VAT, resulting in an overall 18.7 per cent tax".  We believe this high tax level could adversely
affect foreign businesses in Cameroon as well as foreign imports.  Is the Cameroonian Government
considering lowering this tax level?
Paragraph 30 of page 31 of the Secretariat's report also says that "Products that qualify for a
reduced rate are determined by administration decision and … pay an overall 8.8 per cent tax".  What
are the criteria used to determine whether a product qualifies for the reduced rate?
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Report by the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/87)
I. ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
(2) Recent economic developments (paragraph 8)
The Secretariat's report states that "the reliance on trade taxes as a revenue source decreased,
from 17 per cent of total revenue in 1996/97 to 16.5 per cent in 1998/99".  Was the reliance on tradetaxes replaced by increased tax revenues due to other tax administration improvements, such as
reduced exemptions or a broadened tax base, or was it due to increased revenues from other sources
like international lending or grants?
(4) Structural reforms – past and future  (paragraph 22)
The Secretariat's report notes that Cameroon has prepared an interim Poverty Reduction
Strategy Paper (PRSP) and that it was prepared through "participatory consultations conducted
throughout Cameroon".  Any further details on how public participation was achieved would be
appreciated.
II. TRADE POLICY REGIME:  FRAMEWORK AND OBJECTIVES
(1) General legal and institutional framework
(ii) Advisory and consultative bodies  (paragraph 8)
The report states that the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Mines serves as a liaison
between the private and public sectors.  Can you please provide information on the types of export
promotion activities which the Chamber undertakes?  Does the Chamber provide these activities to all
exporters and export sectors?
(iii) Main trade laws and regulations  (paragraph 16)
The Secretariat's report notes that Cameroon is making efforts to increase the transparency of
trade-related legislation.  It also noted that in 1998 it published a Trader's Guide, which provides
information on current procedures and requirements, as well as all relevant trade rules and legislation
governing the distribution, import, and export of goods.  Is this available via the internet or otherdistribution channels readily accessible to potentially interested parties?WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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(iv) Transparency and governance
Non-transparent bidding procedures and weak legal institutions have stunted interest in the
Cameroonian market.  How does the Cameroonian Gove rnment intend to address these problems in a
way that convinces the private sector?
Paragraph 19
The Secretariat's report notes that while the existing legal framework for trade and investment
appears to be clear, there have been complaints regarding inefficient implementation of the laws.  The
Government has prepared a comprehensive strategy, the National Governance Programme to correct
this.  What specific initiatives to increase the transparency and efficiency of government operationsare included in this programme?
(2) Trade Policy Objectives
(ii) Sectoral trade policy objectives  (paragraphs 25, 26, 27 and 28)
The report notes that the Government's sectoral approach is mainly aimed at exports.  In what
way will the Government promote export development?  Since this is part of its sectoral approach,
what sectors of the economy will be promoted?  That is, what enterprises of industries will receive
specific export assistance?  How will the Government provide this assistance?
The Secretariat's report states that one of the agricultural policy objectives in Cameroon is the
improvement of the incentive system.  Can you please provide further information on the agricultural
incentive system?  How will this system be improved upon?
According to the report, Government policies are aimed, at least in part, at increasing animal
production and breeders' income.  How does the Government intend to help improve breeders'
incomes and productivity?  What incentives/aid will be offered?  Will this aid be offered/granted to all
livestock breeders?
The Secretariat's report notes that under Cameroon's Poverty Reduction Strategy, the
Government intends to support private initiatives in the most promising areas, such as foodstuffs, the
processing of agri-foodstuffs, small-scale livestock farming and off-season crops.  Has the
Government elaborated a new export promotion polic y?  Will production in the aluminum sector be
increased through the intervention of the Government?  If so, in what way?
(3) Trade agreements and arrangements
(i) World Trade Organization (paragraphs 30 and 36)
The United States commends the Government for establishing a National Technical
Committee to follow up on the WTO Agreements.  What is the make-up of the Committee and howdoes it fit into the organizational hierarchy of the Cameroonian Government?  What type of
information, training and assistance does the Government think Cameroon is in most need of in the
trade area?
The Secretariat's report notes that Cameroon supports reforming the WTO.  One of the issues
mentioned was the necessity of increasing the transparency of the WTO.  What does Cameroon think
should be done to increase transparency in the work of the WTO?WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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(ii) Regional agreements  (paragraph 43)
The report notes the continuing further integration in Central Africa going on through the
Central African Economic and Monetary Union (C EMAC).  What is the current state of the
movement of capital, workers, services, and goods in CEMAC?
(iii) Other trade agreements or arrangements  (paragraph 46)
According to the Secretariat's report the ACP-EC Partnership Agreement, of which Cameroon
is part, foresees cooperation on and improvement of labour standards as one of its goals.  What type
of cooperation is under way or being considered in this area?  Does Cameroon have any restrictions
on the use of child labour and does it plan on ratifying ILO 182?
(4) Foreign investment regime  (paragraph 50)
The Secretariat's report notes that the Government's policy is to attract and promote foreign
investment in order to stimulate economic growth  and development.  Under the amended Investment
Code various incentives are granted for investments.  Are all enterprises in all industries eligible for
these incentives?
Time-consuming demands by officials for proof of company tax payments have tarnished the
investment climate.  Companies report that this problem points to institutional problems intax-collecting procedures.  What is Cameroon doing to address this issue which hinders further
foreign direct investment?
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE
(2) Measures directly affecting imports
(ii) Customs valuation and rules of origin
Clearing goods through customs in Cameroon is time-consuming and bureaucratic.  What
does the Cameroonian Government intend to do to facilitate faster and transparent clearing
procedures?
Paragraph 11
The Secretariat's report notes that Cameroon's implementation of the Customs Valuation
Agreement, which was foreseen as of 13 December 2000 was delayed.  We look forward to hearing
about Cameroon's progress in implementation of the Agreement.
(iii) Tariffs  (paragraphs 16, 18 and 21)
The report states that CEMAC's common external tariff structure is 5 per cent for essential
goods, 10 per cent for raw materials and capital goods, 20 per cent for intermediate goods and 30 percent for consumer goods.  This structure would appe ar to be detrimental to economic diversification
of the economy in that high rates apply to intermediate goods, and consumers bear the burden of a
30 per cent tariff on consumer goods imports.
The Secretariat's report noted an 18.3 per cent simple average applied MFN tariff, combined
with an 18.7 per cent VAT.  These taxes appear to lead to a misallocation of resources, due to
increased prices and possibly poorer quality goods, result of the high tariff.  What is the Cameroonian
Government's justification for such high border taxes?  What steps is the Government taking toWT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
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decrease its dependency upon tariff and consumption tax revenues?  Has Cameroon considered ways
to expand the tax base and improve tax administration?
The Secretariat's report notes that tariff bindings for non-agricultural products are extremely
limited.  Binding tariffs increases the degree of investor and business confidence because it helps toensure long-term stability of rates.  Does Cameroon have any plans to bind more tariffs?
(iv) Other charges affecting imports  (paragraph 30)
The United States notes that Cameroon exempts pharmaceutical and health-related products
from VAT by Ministerial Ordinance.  Does the Government also provide for duty-free entry of
pharmaceutical and health-related products?
(v) Import licensing, prohibitions and other restrictions  (paragraph 33)
The Government of Cameroon notified the WTO of its decision to delay, for a period of
two years, the application of provisions on automatic import licensing of the Agreement on ImportLicensing Procedures, however, this period has expi red.  Is Cameroon now applying the provisions on
automatic licensing of the Agreement and, if so, has the Government notified the WTO of this?
(vi) Contingency measures  (paragraphs 38, 39, 42 and 43)
The Secretariat's report notes that Cameroon regulates anti-dumping and countervailing duties
through Law No. 98/012.  It further states that dumping occurs when, "the sale price of the imported
good is lower than that 'normally' charged in the country of origin".  What is the definition of
"normally charged"?  The report also observes that Cameroon has not notified the WTO of its
legislative and regulatory framework in regard to  anti-dumping or countervailing duties.  When does
Cameroon plan to notify the WTO?
According to the report, Law No. 98/012 also regulates the imposition of safeguard measures
in Cameroon.  When does Cameroon plan to notify its legislative and regulatory framework regarding
safeguards to the WTO?
(vii) Standards and technical requirements  (paragraph 53)
We are pleased that in April 2001 Cameroon notified its enquiry point as well as its
notification authority, as provided for in the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and
Phytosanitary Measures.  What is the status of th e drafting of a new sanitary and phytosanitary law?
(viii) Government procurement
The United States commends Cameroon on the signature of two decrees on 30 June 2000,
which established new government procurement thresholds, created an independent monitoring board,
set up a system of fines, and introduced an a posteriori audit system for large contracts.  Is Cameroonconsidering joining the Agreement on Government Procurement?
Paragraph 64
The Secretariat's report notes that preference is still given to local products in government
procurement contracts.  Is the 20 per cent price-preference margin on all government procurement for
local companies on top of any tariff applications under CEMAC?WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 16
(ix) State-owned enterprises
We commend Cameroon on the progress it has made since the last Trade Policy Review in
privatizing parastatals.  Cameroon has made progress in privatizing many State-owned enterprises and
is planning to privatize more.  What is the status of the privatization of the agri-industrial CameroonDevelopment Corporation and the Société Nationale d'Electricité du Cameroun ?
(4) Measures affecting production and trade
(i) Incentives (paragraph 90)
The Secretariat's report observes that part of Cameroon's investment strategy has been the
granting of tax incentives.  Have these "tax incenti ves" provided to "promote industrial development,
encourage exports, raise value added, and create employment", been examined for efficiency, for
example, whether they bring about the goals of poverty alleviation?  These incentives also lower tax
revenue, which is problematic when expenditures exceed revenues.  Has Cameroon done any studies
to determine whether the costs outweigh the benefits of tax incentives?
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR
(2) Agriculture and forestry
(i) Agriculture  (paragraph 16)
The Secretariat observed that the agricultural sector has been performing well in recent years,
with an average annual growth rate of 4.6 per ce nt.  In 1998/9 agriculture accounted for 23 per cent of
exports.  While privatization is under way in the agri-industrial sector, the Government remains
directly involved in the production of cash crops through the Cameroon Development Corporation(CDC).  What are the Government's plans for privatization of the CDC and what is the current status
of those plans?
(ii) Forestry  (paragraph 19)
The report states that the forestry sector has made a stable contribution of around 7 per cent to
GDP since 1994 and that Cameroon has taken steps to ensure the sustainability of its forests whileencouraging the processing of timber for export.  What other steps is the Cameroonian Government
taking to make the forestry sector sustainable over the long run?
(3) Mining and oil  (paragraphs 27 and 34)
It is noted that Cameroon has plentiful gas reserves but that they are not being exploited.
What percentage of associated gas is being flared?
The Secretariat notes that the Mining Code of 1964 has been revised and that new legislation
is currently being discussed in the National Assembly.  What is the status of the new legislation?How is it designed to decrease the role of the State directly in mining operations while increasing its
role as regulator?  How will the new Code increase  exploration, especially in regard to marginal
fields?
The report states that part of the Government's energy policy is to reduce domestic oil
consumption.  What steps are being taken to increase the domestic demand for natural gas?  Are there
plans to increase the capability of local private sector electricity producers to handle gas?WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 17
(4) Manufacturing  (paragraph 36)
The Secretariat's report indicates that the manufacturing sector remains relatively under-
developed, accounting for around 14 per cent of GDP.  The report notes that Cameroon was set to
adopt a strategy aimed at promoting the developmen t of this sector.  Has the proposed strategy been
finalized?  If so, could you please provide details of it, especially in relation to what sort of training is
envisioned with regard to the promotion strategy.  How will this strategy "promote exports of
manufacturing goods to the regional market"?
The report previously noted that Cameroon does not provide any industry-specific incentives.
Was the expansion of the industrial free-zone scheme to non-export oriented enterprises or the
creation of fiscal incentives for manufacturers part of the promotion strategy?
(5) Services
(i) Overview  (paragraphs 40 and 42)
The Secretariat's report notes that the performance of the services sector during the last
decade was not satisfactory and that there was a decline in productivity in virtually all subsectors, due
mainly to a deterioration of the infrastructure and mismanagement of State-owned enterprises.  What
steps is the Government taking to privatize and implement reforms of the different subsectors in order
to increase productivity?
While the Secretariat observes that Cameroon has an open services sector, it has bound only a
few areas under GATS.  Is the Government planning  on binding more areas to ensure investors that
the services sector will remain open?
The report also notes that there are some horizontal limitations on market access.  Does
Cameroon plan to reduce or remove its horizontal local-content requirement?
(ii) Financial services  (paragraphs 53 and 54)
Does Cameroon plan to schedule financial se rvices commitments?  Such commitments would
help strengthen the economy and infrastructure for trade.
Are there any foreign insurance firms operating in Cameroon?  According to the Secretariat's
report, Cameroon planned to liquidate the Assurances Mutuelles Agricoles du Cameroun
(AMACAM) and the Société Camerounaise d'Assurance et de Réassurances  (SOCAR), and privatize
the Caisse Nationale de Réassurance  (CNR).  However, the CNR was liquidated and the SOCAR
privatized.  Please explain the rationale for this action.  Who holds majority ownership in the
SOCAR?  Is the AMACAM still State-owned?
According to the Secretariat's report, foreign companies may only offer insurance and
reinsurance services through a branch in Cameroon.  Does Cameroon allow foreign companies toprovide insurance and reinsurance services through subsidiaries and joint ventures in addition to
branches?  Does Cameroon allow certain insurance services to be supplied across borders?
(iii) Telecommunications
The Secretariat's report notes that a second licence for the provision of mobile telephone
services was granted in 1999.  When does the Government plan to allow the establishment of
additional cellular telephone companies?WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 18
(v) Tourism  (paragraphs 74 and 75)
We welcome Cameroon's efforts to develop its tourism sector.  According to the Secretariat's
report, Cameroon has yet to develop a plan to attract 50,000 tourists by 2002.  Is such a plan being
developed?  When does Cameroon anticipate having such a plan in place?
What are the criteria for obtaining a licence from the Ministry of Tourism to provide tourism
services?  Please provide more information on the fees charged to tourism service providers.  Does
Cameroon anticipate allowing foreign suppliers to provide tourist guide services?WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 19
ANNEX II
RESPONSES BY THE DELEGATION OF CAMEROON
Implementation of the Marrakesh Agreements
1. The uneven results achieved at the meeting of Trade Ministers in Libreville, after the Seattle
setback, is sufficient proof of the scope of what is at stake and the challenges to be met by the
international community in a new round of multilateral trade negotiations.
2. African countries went to Seattle to attend the third ministerial conference of the WTO in the
hope that it would mark a new departure in multilateral trade negotiations within the framework of theWorld Trade Organization.  They went to Seattle to underline the need for a "development round" that
would tackle the question of the rise in poverty in their countries and the terms for their effective
integration into the rapidly expanding global trading system.  They also went to convince the
industrialized countries to open up their markets to African exports, to abolish measures in the
Uruguay Round Agreements that disadvantaged developing countries, and to adopt a series ofmeasures giving the least-developed countries special and differential treatment.
3. Following the Marrakesh Agreement, African countries made efforts to become properly
integrated in the trading system and to take a mo re active role in the multilateral trade negotiations
within the framework of the WTO.  The first and second ministerial conferences of the WTO in 1996
and 1998 were not perhaps well prepared, but recently African countries have made all the necessaryefforts, with the assistance of international organizations such as the UNCTAD, the ECA, the UNDP
and the OAU and other countries, in particular South Africa, in order to prepare the third ministerial
conference in Seattle and the new multilateral trade negotiations.  As a result of the organization of a
series of meetings, seminars and conferences a nd action by the African group in Geneva, the issues
dealt with in Seattle were studied in greater detail  than had been the case when preparing the previous
WTO ministerial conferences.
The international trading system must meet Africa's essential needs in the area of development
4. Principally due to the foregoing, the substantive problem, which should have been Africa's
development programme in the international trading system and its environment, was not dealt with
and was not the focus of the Uruguay Round Agreements.  This is why even though developed
countries and some developing countries have to a certain extent benefited from the expansion ofglobal trade, for many African countries, globalization and liberalization have not yielded such
benefits.
5. African countries wonder whether the future multilateral trading system will meet Africa's
expectations in the area of development.  It is up to African countries as members of the WTO to
ensure that their concerns and interests (and, even more important, their development objectives) arefully taken into account during the new round of negotiations.  They must ensure that the next round
is a "development round".  That must be the essential focus of Africa's negotiating strategy.
6. Cameroon notes with satisfaction the progress made since the third ministerial conference in
Seattle.  Today, both developed and developing countries agree that the liberalization of trade must
serve development.
7. It would seem that developed countries are increasingly aware of our countries' handicaps and
limitations in implementing the Marrakesh Agreements.  The growing number of consultations with aWT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 20
view to the next meeting at Doha in Qatar should allow the concerns of all to be taken into account
and thus ensure that the process under way meets with success.
8. Cameroon would like to see even more progress in this direction.  It wonders, however, what
would be the best way to achieve this, particularly in view of the implementation difficulties
encountered by developing countries and their low level of capacity in this area.  In this context, anevaluation of the implementation of the present Agreements would perhaps provide a focus for
reflection that would lead to the success sought by all.
I. ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
(1) Macroeconomic policies
9. In view of the economic crisis that has affected Cameroon since the mid-1980s, in the area of
macroeconomic policies, the Government's efforts have been directed at achieving a recovery in
public finance through its budgetary policy.  The major fiscal policy reform in this connection was the
introduction of VAT to replace the turnover tax (TCA).  Since January 1999, VAT has proved to be
an effective tax because of the amounts it has yielded and it has made a significant contribution to
increasing budgetary revenue.
10. The monetary readjustment in January 1994 and the reforms in the financial sector (insurance
and banks) have also contributed to renewed growth in Cameroon over the past five or six financial
years.
11. The Government is determined to strengthen and resolutely pursue the reform process
undertaken in order to establish a favourable and secure environment for the development of business.
(2) Strengthening the financial situation and measures to combat poverty and improve
governance
12. Since the implementation of the Government's economic and financial programme
(1997-2000), Cameroon's budgetary policy has been aimed at increasing non-petroleum earnings (in
the context of a tax break) and an improvement in the quality of expenditure.  For example, since thebeginning of this programme, non-petroleum earnings have continued to increase and during the
2000-2001 financial year, the realization rate for these earnings was 122 per cent.
13. Regarding spending, measures have been taken to:  (i) strengthen the operational capacity of
ministries in programming expenditure;  (ii) improve tendering procedures for government
procurement in a context of transparency;  (iii) give more importance when allocating the budget to
sectors identified as priorities in the context of the Government programme to combat poverty (health,
education, basic infrastructure, particularly in rural areas).
14. Regarding better governance in particular, the Government is determined to speed up the
implementation of the measures listed in its Economic and Financial Policy Memorandum (MPEF) of
December 2000.  The first step is to finalize the terms of reference for the technical audit of the
judicial system, in agreement with the World Bank and the IMF, and to commence the study itself at
the latest by the end of September 2001.  At the same time, the Government will take a certainnumber of steps to resolve the judicial problems that have a negative impact on private investment.
This action includes the convening of a meeting of those in charge of the courts in order to make them
aware of the concerns of the private sector, particularly as regards the judges hearing court
proceedings, judges in chambers, their legal rulings (including seizure), verdicts and payment of
penalties, the organization of provincial seminars for the purpose of training, informing magistrates onOHADA Law and judicial practice, the effective opera tion of the Inspectorate General of JudicialWT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 21
Services, further boosting the controls exercised by judges over the courts within their competence,
codification of the OHADA legislation and its dissemination to magistrates, and the enactment of the
Cameroonian legislation envisa ged in the OHADA harmonized acts.
15. Some of the other measures in the strategy to improve governance and lessen corruption are
the setting up of an anti-corruption monitoring centre within the Prime Minister's office and the
establishment of similar bodies in certain ministerial departments, the participation of independent
observers in the government procurement commissions , thereby reinforcing their credibility.  Special
attention will be paid to the following points:  establishment of an institutional co-management
mechanism in the health and education sectors;  better information for citizens on the administration
of public affairs;  before September 2001, implementation of the measures provided in
Decree 2000/287, which bans the exercise of profit-making activities by civil servants and deals with
potential conflicts of interest of public servants;  before the end of December 2001, the adoption of aplan of action, to set up the jurisdictional bodies pr ovided in the Constitution (including the National
Audit Office and the Institutional Council).  Lastly , the Government will continue to improve the
quality and regular publication of the quarterly reports on budgetary implementation prepared by the
major ministries (including Education, Health and Public Works).
3. Privatization programme and development of the private sector
16. Among the reforms introduced by the Government as part of the economic recovery, the
privatization programme is a key reform that is one of the measures taken by the Government with a
view to the State's withdrawal from the commercial sectors of the economy.  These measures are part
of the programme to liberalize Cameroon's economy.  In this context, the State's role is increasingly
confined to its supervisory tasks, leaving the private sector to act as a catalyst and to supporteconomic growth.  This is why the Government has recently embarked upon coordinated management
of the economy, which involves greater participation by the private sector in the elaboration of
macroeconomic policies.  Frameworks for consulta tion have also been introduced including:  the
inter-ministerial Committee expanded to include the private sector, the Committee on competition,
whose chair is held by the private sector, the facilitation committee, etc.
4. Foreign investment regime
17. Foreign direct investment is an essential factor in Cameroon's economic development.  This is
why the authorities have taken a number of steps to attract such investment.  These include the
following:
- Simplification of administrative pr ocedures (single window in Douala);
- adoption of legislation on competition and anti-dumping measures;- legal and judicial reforms;- privatization programme;
- national governance programme.
18. To complement these measures, studies are under way to evaluate the body of measures
already taken with the final objective of adopting a national investment charter in order to implement
the directives contained in the charter adopted at the Community level.  These studies should lead to
the establishment of support structures for private initiative (investment promotion centre,
administrative formalities centre, export promotion centre).WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 22
5. WTO:  implementation of the Agreements, notification, technical assistance,
participation in the current negotiations, and preparation of the Doha Ministerial
meeting
19. The Committee monitoring the Marrakesh Agreements is under the direct authority of the
Minister for Trade and includes members from the private sector.   It operates through meetings of itsmembers, but it is handicapped by lack of sufficient  resources.  Furthermore, not all of its members
are fully conversant with the rules governing the WTO.  The concepts used in the WTO are highly
technical, and this means that members have to be continually updated and those of them who are not
familiar with the WTO even have to be given training.  In order to resolve these problems, Cameroon
proposes the establishment of a permanent secretariat.
20. Such a permanent secretariat would assist the implementation of the WTO Agreements and
could be financed by Cameroon's partners, for example, the European Union and the WTO, whichCameroon expects will not only provide technical assistance but also financial assistance.  This body
could have the following tasks:
- Establishment of an operational mechanism for the ongoing monitoring of the
Marrakesh Agreements;
- analysis and assessment of the impact of the Agreements on various sectors of the
Cameroonian economy;
- identification of problems and obstacles regarding the implementation of the
Agreements at the national, regional and international levels;
- proposals to the Government on appropriate solutions so as to define and strengthen a
joint position on various Agreements at the national level;
- promotion of awareness among economic operators, together with training and
information on the WTO Agreements, etc..
(6) Regional agreements, in particular the CEMAC
21. The low level of trade between Cameroon and the CEMAC can be explained by the
mechanisms that operate in an economic region in which the movement of persons, goods, services
and capital is subject to many distortions.  Taking as a basis the traditional criteria applied to an
economic and monetary zone, the following problems exist:
- Capital and labour are not sufficiently mobile;
- the transport and communications infrastructure is inadequate (particularly roads);
- the stagnation of economic growth is an exacerbating factor in the move towards
convergence among the economies;
- prevailing political instability in certain partners;- the external orientation of economies in the area.WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 23
II. TRADE POLICY MEASURES
(1) Tariffs (tariffs applied and bound;  tariff escalation);  surcharge;  VAT
(i) Tariffs (tariffs applied and bound;  tariff escalation)
22. The tariffs applied in Cameroon are fixed by the Common External Tariff (CET) of the
CEMAC.  The CET divides goods into four categories and has rates ranging from 5 to 30 per cent.
23. The CET is currently being evaluated;  this should allow its distortions to be pinpointed and
the formulation of corrective measures.  No increase in tariffs is envisaged.  Once the negotiations
under way have concluded, Cameroon will be able to notify the WTO of the new bound rates,
particularly for the categories of goods in the CET other than agricultural products.
(ii) Surcharge
24. The current CET does not include any surcharge.  Article 12 of the Community Customs
Code, however, allows member States, under certain  conditions, to apply surcharges to products
originating in countries that apply a very high rate of taxation on goods from CEMAC territory.
25. These are in fact exceptional measures applied in conditions defined by the Executive
Secretariat of the CEMAC in order to deal with a tariff treatment deemed unfavourable to exports
from countries of the subregion.
(iii) Value added tax (VAT)
26. The VAT has been in effect in Cameroon since 1999.  It is a neutral tax that forms part of the
cost price.  VAT is paid by the final consumer of a manufactured product.
27. The application of this new tax and the mechanism for its reimbursement can be improved.
Studies are already under way in order to remedy the problems encountered.
(2) Customs procedures (operation of a single window);  customs valuation;  preshipment
inspection
(i) The single window for foreign trade (GUCE)
28. The GUCE is a structure established as the result of consultations between the State and the
private sector and its main objective is to help to lessen delays and the cost of clearing goods.  It
brings together in the same place the majority of those involved in foreign trade, for example:
- Customs service;
- Autonomous Port of Douala;
- phytosanitary service;-b a n k s ;- inspection bodies;- ONCC;WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 24
- Treasury;
- foreign exchange services.
29. After its first year of operation, it can be stated that this structure has helped to accelerate the
flow of commercial transactions.
30. Studies are currently being carried out to evaluate the system and integrate transactions
upstream of the customs clearance procedure.
(ii) Preshipment inspection
31. Goods whose f.o.b. value exceeds CFAF 2,0 00 000 are subject to preshipment inspection.
This is the only criteria for the applicability of the mechanism.
(iii) Customs valuation
32. Cameroon has applied the Customs Valuation Agreement since 1 July 2001 (the relevant
CEMAC text adopted is available).  Procedures and waivers will be notified to the WTO very shortly.
(3) Import licensing procedures
33. The main features of the liberalization of  Cameroon's economy are the State's withdrawal
from the production sector and the liberalization of trade.  In this area, import licences were formerly
granted in order to restrict volume and so protect local industry.
34. Such licences have now been abolished and replaced by a declaration formality purely for
statistical purposes.
(4) Legislation on anti-dumping, countervailing and safeguard measures
35. Cameroon has adopted measures to combat dumping and, in general, anti-competitive trade
practices.  These measures will be notified subsequently.
(5) Sanitary and phytosanitary measures and technical standards
36. In adopting Law No. 96/11 of 5 August 1996 on standardization, Cameroon has an instrument
that allows it to draw up such standards and thus catch up with other countries in this respect.  This
process has been facilitated by the signature of Decree No. 98/313 of 9 December 1998 reorganizing
the Ministry of Industry and Commercial Development, which has set up the Committee for
Standardization and Quality.
37. All the standards already drawn up or being pr epared refer to international standards because
Cameroon is a Member of the ISO, the Codex Alimentarius, the International Office of Epizootics
(IOE) and the International Convention for the protection of plant varieties.
38. Like the other countries of the CEMAC, Cameroon attended a subregional seminar on the
SPS Agreement organized by the WTO.
39. Five standards have been adopted so far, including those on wheat flour and jute sacks, and
20 more are being prepared.WT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 25
40. The full implementation of these Agreements requires technical assistance from the WTO
because of the following problems:
- Incomplete mastery of the TBT and the SPS Agreements;
- lack of equipment and resources;- insufficient participation in international meetings in order to obtain a full
understanding of standardization issues.
(6) Government procurement:  transparency and participation in the relevant plurilateral
agreement.
41. Compared with the previous mechanism, the new legal and institutional framework is based
on voluntary list and innovative decisions concerning better governance, the need for transparency,
and systematic recourse to competition.  These include the following:
- Review of the scope of competence of government procurement commissions and the
establishment of internal commissions within the M.O. for services relating to orders;
- the appointment of independent observers in bodies dealing with tenders, recruited by
the authority responsible for government procurement on the basis of notices
published at the international level;  they will participate as independent observers in
the work of the commissions considering tenders:  the objective here is to ensure theproper application of the government procurement regulations by respecting the rules
on transparency, competition and the principles of equity throughout the tender
procedures for government procurement;
- systematic a posteriori audits for all tenders exceeding CFAF 500 million and for
25 per cent of those ranging from CFAF 30 to 500 million chosen from a
multisectoral sample, to be carried out by well-known international firms;
- the process of recruiting the observers and auditors is almost complete;- a draft decree on the creation, organization and operation of the government
procurement commissions is being prepared.  This text follows the PresidentialDecree No. 2001/048 of 23 February 2001 on the creation, organization and operation
of the Agency to Regulate Government Procurement (ARMP).
(7) Export promotion and assistance measures
42. The partial or total exemptions from duty for products imported in order to manufacture
products for export is based on the CEMAC Customs Code and the regulations recommended by the
WCO;  they are not therefore peculiar to Came roon, which strictly follows the CEMAC legislation,
which in turn derives from the Directives of the WCO.
III. SECTORAL POLICIES
(1) Agriculture:  objectives of th e agricultural policy;  incentives
43. The following are the objectives of the agricultural policy:  to achieve food self-sufficiency,
to promote and diversify agricultural production so that Cameroon's economy is less dependent on
fluctuations in commodity prices.  For this purpos e, an in-depth study has begun to put in place aWT/TPR/M/87/Add.1
Page 26
relevant and suitable legal and institutional framework and this should lead to the adoption of a
sectoral code.
2. Forestry:  export restrictions
44. The current forestry legislation has the following objectives:
- Environmental protection;
- sustainable management of forestry resources;- industrialization of the forestry sector.
45. This legislation was introduced with the agreement of Cameroon's development partners,
particularly the European Union and the Bretton Woods institutions.
46. The ban on exporting logs (not wood) is in line with these objectives.  It should not be
interpreted as a restriction on the exercise of business activities.  It is much more a concern aimed at
ensuring rational and sustainable management of this cash crop, which is not eternal.  Moreover, the
ban on exporting logs only concerns around a dozen species out of the 300 tradable species in
Cameroon's forests.
3. Mining and petroleum legislation
47. The texts published by the Cameroonian authorities on mining and petroleum will be the
subject of a subsequent notification to the WTO Secretariat.
4. Manufacturing sector
48. After the adoption of the texts on tax and customs reform, Cameroon, bearing in mind the
problems in the clothing sector, is examining ways to boost this branch.  The Investment Charter now
being finalized could provide a suitable response to this concern, in addition to the benefits that this
branch could obtain within the AGOA.
5. Services (financial, maritime, teleco mmunications, tourism);  the expanded
commitments under the GATS
49. In the services sector, the financial, maritime and telecommunications sectors have been the
subject of reform that is still ongoing.  This concerns privatization and liberalization.  The tourism
sector has been the subject of an in-depth study that could lead to the adoption of a tourism code.
__________