In fact, most of the rise in wheat and rice consumption in Africa was met by increased imports.97 In Cameroon for example, since the 1970s external rice purchases and the development of rice production have been influenced by changes in prices and customs regulations. The rice market grew from 15,000 tons to 60,000 tons between 1975 and 1980. Since then the progression in imports can be explained by the economic crisis coupled with growing urbanization - two factors which have had a significant impact on eating habits and farming in the country.