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Cameroon: Domestic Gas Subsidy Reaches FCFA 28 Billion as of September 2024
The domestic gas subsidy in Cameroon totaled FCFA 27.7 billion by the end of September 2024, reflecting a significant reduction compared to the FCFA 43.6 billion budgeted for the year.

This announcement by the Hydrocarbons Price Stabilization Fund (CSPH) highlights efforts to stabilize butane gas prices while reducing fiscal strain on the public treasury.
A Decline in Subsidy Costs
The CSPH stated that improved revenue collection from its operations enabled the organization to sustain subsidies for households. Although it did not disclose exact revenue figures, the CSPH reported that monthly subsidy costs averaged FCFA 2.7 billion this year.
Projections suggest that the total domestic gas subsidy for 2024 will close around FCFA 38 billion, an 8% decline from the FCFA 42.5 billion spent in 2023. The CSPH attributed this decrease to stable market conditions during the fourth quarter of 2024.
The lower subsidy bill is a welcome development for Cameroon’s treasury, which initially allocated FCFA 43.6 billion in the 2024 budget for domestic gas support.
Key Drivers Behind the Savings
Although the CSPH did not detail the reasons for the reduced subsidy costs, several factors may have contributed:
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Increased Domestic Production:
Since 2021, the National Hydrocarbons Corporation (SNH) has ramped up domestic production of butane, providing over 700,000 12.5-kilogram gas cylinders to households annually. This increased availability helps reduce reliance on costly imports. -
Elimination of Intermediary Costs:
By strengthening the SNH’s supply chain and reducing transportation and intermediary fees, Cameroon has minimized operational surcharges, resulting in financial savings. -
Import Optimization:
In June 2024, the CSPH launched a tender to secure traders for the importation of 60,000 metric tons of domestic gas. This move aimed to ensure a steady supply while reducing the costs associated with covering the nation’s 80% dependency on imported butane.
Fuel Price Stabilization Remains a Priority
While the government has reduced its domestic gas subsidy expenses, it continues to prioritize price stability for fuel. In 2024, the state allocated FCFA 263 billion to maintain stable fuel pump prices despite a 40% price increase over the past year. For 2025, however, Parliament has approved a reduction of FCFA 15 billion in the fuel subsidy budget.
Unlike fuel prices, domestic gas prices will remain frozen, ensuring affordability for households.
The Path Forward
Cameroon’s efforts to manage its hydrocarbon subsidies reflect a strategic balancing act between supporting households and reducing fiscal pressure. By enhancing local production and optimizing imports, the country is positioning itself to achieve greater energy self-sufficiency while lowering its subsidy expenditures.
As the year ends, further updates on the subsidy figures and additional measures may provide clearer insights into Cameroon’s long-term energy and fiscal policies.
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