Customs Boss Edwin Fongod Nuvaga flanked by collaborators at the press conference.
Cameroon’s customs clearance system for mobile phones, tablets and other electronic devices is now operational. Operational from today April 1, 2026, it aims to modernise tax collection and secure public revenue. Announced by Finance Minister Louis Paul Motaze, the reform introduces an automated mechanism for declaring and paying duties through the Customs Administration’s CAMCIS system.
The measure shifts clearance from border-based controls to a technology-driven system that identifies devices through their IMEI numbers. Authorities say it is based on Article 6 of the 2023 Finance Law and does not introduce new taxes, but digitises the enforcement of existing obligations.
Customs Director General Edwin Fongod Nuvaga said the system targets longstanding revenue losses linked to undeclared electronic imports. Travellers, he noted, often bypass customs by carrying multiple devices without declaring them.
“It is easy to travel abroad, buy several phones and pass through Customs without declaring them, even though they are subject to duties like any other imported goods,” he said.
With high-end smartphones sometimes exceeding one million CFA francs (XAF) and subject to a 33.3% duty, customs authorities estimate significant revenue losses from undeclared imports. The system introduces a “digital border” to track devices and enforce compliance beyond physical checkpoints.
The reform requires importers and authorised brokers to declare devices and submit IMEI numbers via CAMCIS, with duties paid in local currency through approved channels, including electronic payments.
Operational framework and compliance measures
The Finance Ministry outlines key provisions: importers remain responsible for clearance, while declarations and tax assessments are processed digitally. Payments can be made through authorised channels, including electronic platforms.
Devices already connected to local networks before April 1, 2026 are granted fiscal amnesty and deemed compliant. Tourists using roaming are exempt, while short-term visitors may access local networks under temporary admission without paying duties.
Distributors must regularise existing stocks within two months by providing proof of prior customs clearance. Vendors are also required to enable customers to verify the customs status of devices or risk liability.
“Authorised vendors and distributors must enable customers to verify the customs status of devices,” the minister’s statement said.
Consumer verification and enforcement tools
The reform allows consumers to verify the customs status of devices via SMS or online platforms provided by Customs. Authorities advise buyers to confirm compliance before purchasing from local distributors.
Only devices cleared digitally, under temporary admission, or covered by fiscal amnesty will be allowed to connect to local networks. Small quantities of undeclared devices must be regularised through simplified declarations at customs offices or via a dedicated web portal.
Beyond revenue collection, Customs says the system will enhance security by tackling IMEI duplication and improving device traceability. By uniquely identifying and registering each device, authorities aim to strengthen tracking in cases of theft or criminal investigations.
“This system makes it easier to track stolen phones and identify suspects,” Edwin Fongod Nuvaga said.
The Finance Ministry said the reform aims to strengthen transparency, reduce revenue leakages and improve customs efficiency, while relying on public compliance.
