Cameroon's outstanding debt surges by 2,310% from 2017, reaching SDR 1.18 billion by 2025

Key Takeaways:

  • Cameroon’s IMF debt decreased from SDR 70.6 million in 2016 to SDR 49.1 million in 2017—a 30% reduction.
  • From 2018 onwards, the country experienced steady increases in outstanding debt.
  • After an initial 30% reduction from 2016 to 2017, debt skyrocketed by 380% in just one year (2017-2018).
  • By March 2025, Cameroon’s outstanding debt had reached SDR 1.18 billion, representing a staggering SDR 1.13 billion increase from its 2017 level.
  • Although the pace of accumulation has moderated in recent years, the overall debt trend remains upward.

Between 2016 and 2025, Cameroon’s external debt to the International Monetary Fund underwent a dramatic transformation. The country’s outstanding debt, which stood at SDR 70.6 million in 2016, decreased further to SDR 49.1 million in 2017.

However, 2018 marked the beginning of a significant and sustained shift. Debt surged to SDR 235.7 million, reflecting a 380% increase in just one year. This sharp rise signalled the start of a steady upward trend that has continued unabated through to 2025.

Source:

International Monetary Fund (IMF)

Period:

2016 - 2025
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