The markets of non-timber forest products in the humid forest zone of Cameroon

This paper is the result of a study that had as an objective to determine the importance of Non Timber Forest Products (NTFP) markets. The study was based on field observations and interviews of 267 traders of 28 local markets and market intermediaries of four main NTFPs sold in the Humid Forest Zone of Cameroon. In the tropical region, it is estimated that a significant number of households depend on NTFP for their livelihoods, income, and employment for gatherers and traders. Results show that 1,100 traders, of which 94% are women, depend on NTFPs. NTFP trade is left for women and children while men focus in the marketing of cocoa and coffee. The study revealed that the majority of NTFP traders earn less than the minimum wage from their NTFP.