CMR imported over 43,146 vehicles in 2013

The number of vehicles (new and used) imported in Cameroon in 2013 according to records stood at 43,146 according to the customs statistics.

Among the recorded imported vehicles are tractors, motor vehicles, vans and other motor vehicles designed for the transport of persons, goods etc.

Closely analyzing the data from the customs administration, in the case of new vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles for transport of goods displayed the highest numbers with an average of 2,000 vehicles imported annually between 2010 and 2013.

These two categories of vehicles are also distinguished with second hand vehicles in perspective. Indeed, for this category, the average is higher than 30,000 second hand passenger vehicles imported on the average per year between 2010 and 2013. And for cargo vehicles, this average is above 5,000 vehicles per year over the same period.

This analysis of the figures reflects in what is seen on the streets and our towns and countryside. Used cars remain the most widely patronised in Cameroon.

Another information revealed by the statistics of the customs, is the increase in the number of imported second-hand vehicles. They went from 33,000 units in 2010 to 37,000 in 2013. On the other hand, for new vehicles, imports rather decreased, going from 7,000 to 5,000 units over the same period. On the market, these new vehicles are sold by dealers who represent one or more brands.

Moreover, the information gathered from dealers established in Cameroon, revealed that over 3,000 new vehicles are sold between January and September 2014, with Cami Toyota dominating the market with 47.49% of the shares, followed by Tractafric Motors, Socada, Tiger Motors, Mitcam and Sacam.

In September, 2013 in Douala, at the presentation to the public of three new models (Renault Logan, Sandero, Lodgy), dealer of brand Renault, Tractafric Motors Cameroon vehicles, announced an increase of almost 300% of its market share from 6.05% in 2010 to 17.95% in 2013, a performance that reflects the enthusiasm of Cameroonians for vehicles.

Indeed, if the country does not have an automotive industry, it is only a "matter of time", according to officials at the Ministry of Mines, industry and technological development.

Moreover, alongside the very expected Chinese vehicles 'made in Cameroon', other investors have expressed their intentions to implement automobile factories of Assembly in Cameroon.