Cameroon spent 274.3 billion FCFA on hydrocarbon imports in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 2.5% year-on-year increase.
The figure underscores the growing financial burden on the Central African nation as it continues to rely heavily on external energy supplies to meet domestic demand.
The rise in import expenditure comes at a time when many African economies are grappling with the dual challenges of high global energy prices and currency volatility.
For Cameroon, which is a net importer of refined petroleum products, the increased spend directly impacts the trade balance and puts pressure on foreign exchange reserves.
This development mirrors broader trends across the continent.
Recent data from neighboring Nigeria showed significant crude export volumes, yet many regional peers face similar import bill escalations.