While large international oil companies retail petroleum products, and international car rental companies operate through franchise dealers, there are few, if any, other franchise operations in Cameroon. Caution is required for joint ventures and licensing arrangements, as the investment climate presents high risk factors. Foreign and local investors also often complain of undue influence from entrenched French interests. Few internationally known American products other than oil and gas are produced in Cameroon under licensing agreements. It provides investment authorization and a variety of other services through a network of official correspondents in all relevant Ministries.
Commercial banks offer consumer loans for large individual purchases.
Private advertising firms may be contacted for publicity assistance. Advertising via slides and short films in theatres can be effective, especially in Yaounde, Douala and Bafoussam, which have large film-going publics. If U.S. exporters can price in French francs, especially for deliveries over a six to 12 month period. The major factors in penetrating the Cameroonian market may be price and credits. It has been a principal reason for limited U.S. marketing success in Cameroon, especially in the high-tech or heavy industrial equipment areas where sales service is critical.