Commercialisation and Market Margins of Marantaceae Species in Cameroon

Abstract

This study examined the commercialization of Marantaceae species in Cameroon, with focus on market margins, socio-economic dynamics, and regional trade patterns. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, focus group discussions (FGDs), and key informant interviews involving harvesters, traders, and consumers participating in the Marantaceae value chain across key markets in the different agro-ecological zones of Cameroon. The study analyzed profitability through the Rate of Market Margin (RMM) and Net Marketing Margin (NMM). Findings revealed that collectors retain higher per-unit profits, but wholesalers are the main financial beneficiaries due to their larger trading volumes, faster turnover, and better access to market. Retailers record modest gains limited by spoilage and competition. An estimated average of 55, 651 bundles of Marantaceae species notably Halopegia azurea, Marantochloa purpurea, Haumania denckelmaniana, and Megaphrynium marostachyumare are traded monthly by approximately 421 traders, (engaged in Marantaceae trade). When extrapolated annually, this corresponds to a substantial volume entering the national value chain underlining the growing economic importance of Marantaceae in the non-timber forest product sector. The trade contributes significantly to household incomes, particularly for women, but remains constrained by informality and infrastructural challenges. Enhancing cooperative organization, price transmission, and sustainable harvesting would improve equity, efficiency, and long-term viability of the Marantaceae value chain in Cameroon.