Cameroun Launches First Gas Bottle Manufacturing Plant, Creating 250 Jobs

Cameroun has marked a significant milestone in its industrial sector with the inauguration of its first gas bottle manufacturing plant, the PROGAZ Unit. Located in Douala, the plant boasts a production capacity of 600,000 bottles per year and represents an 18 billion FCFA investment.

The inauguration on June 1, 2024, signifies a significant step towards self-sufficiency in the domestic gas sector. The PROGAZ Unit is expected to significantly reduce the country's reliance on imported gas bottles, which currently stands at 450,000 bottles annually, costing 8 billion FCFA.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the PROGAZ Unit aims to meet the growing demand for gas bottles in the national market. This development is part of the Métal group's broader strategy to modernize Cameroon's industry and promote local expertise.

The plant's establishment has also created 250 direct and indirect jobs, contributing to the country's economic development and efforts to combat unemployment. The Prometal group, which owns the PROGAZ Unit, is positioning itself as a global leader in the steel industry, with ambitions bolstered by projects like Mbalam and Grand Zambi iron.

Why this matters: This development has significant implications for Cameroon's economy and industrial sector, as it reduces reliance on imported gas bottles and creates new job opportunities. The increased self-sufficiency and reduced import costs could have a positive impact on the country's economic growth and development.

Journalist Albin Njilo remarked on the significance of this development: "The Cameroun industrial, Cameroun becomes a producer and exporter of gas bottles. It's the PROGAZ Unit, part of the Métal group, which has equipped Cameroun with a brand-new factory for manufacturing domestic gas bottles (600,000 per year)."

This initiative not only reduces import dependency but also stimulates the national economy and creates added value in the region. The mastery of the gas bottle production chain, from steel fabrication to product commercialization, provides a strategic advantage for the Prometal group, enhancing its competitiveness in the international market.

Key Takeaways

• Cameroun inaugurates its first gas bottle manufacturing plant, PROGAZ Unit.
• Plant has a production capacity of 600,000 bottles per year.
• Investment of 18 billion FCFA reduces reliance on imported gas bottles.
• 250 direct and indirect jobs created, contributing to economic development.
• Self-sufficiency in gas bottles expected to boost economic growth.