Cameroon

Although the BESC is mandatory and crucial for the shipping process, it remains one of the most overlooked certificates.

What is Cameroon BESC?

BESC stands for Bordereau Électronique de Suivi des Cargaisons, which translates from French to Electronic Cargo Tracking Note, ECTN. The name ECTN itself reveals much about its purpose. It is designed to enable authorities to track, manage, and supervise cargoes from loading to discharge, in addition to providing information about the shipments before they reach the destination port. This certificate contains details about the exporter, the importer, the goods being transported and their value, the freight cost, the type of shipment, the vessel’s name, and more.

What are the required documents?

• Bill of Lading: This is a document that provides information about the exporter, the importer, the weight and volume of the goods, the shipping line, the vessel name, etc.
• Commercial Invoice: This document contains the details of the goods, the incoterm, the freight cost, and some other charges like insurance, etc.
• Freight Invoice: This is a document that is only necessary if the freight cost isn’t on the commercial invoice.
• Import Declaration: It’s a document that provides information about the importer, the type of transport, etc. The importer has to provide it, and it has to contain a Tax Payer’s ID, a PR number, and an SGS number.

New RORO Shipping Requirement – May 2025:
All RORO vehicle shipments must now be accompanied by:

• Proof of FIMEX registration or
• A Special Import Authorization

What are the consequences of not having the BESC certificate?

The BESC certificate must be validated five days before the vessel arrives at the latest. If it isn’t validated, by then, you’d have to pay twice the amount of the BESC cost plus the regulation charges determined by the Cameroon National Port Officials.

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How long does it take to get Cameroon BESC certificate?

We provide draft Cameroon BESC certificate the same day. We provide certificates to exporters all over the World.

Which ports in Cameroon require (cargo waiver) BESC certificate?

• Port of Douala:
  Located in the city of Douala, the Port of Douala is the largest and busiest port in Cameroon. It serves as the main gateway for international trade, handling a significant portion of Cameroon’s imports and exports.
• Port of Kribi:
  Situated in the coastal city of Kribi, the Port of Kribi is a deep-water port that was developed to alleviate congestion at the Port of Douala. It has modern infrastructure and handles containerized cargo, bulk commodities, and petroleum products.
• Port of Limbe:
  Located in the city of Limbe, the Port of Limbe is an important regional port in Cameroon. It primarily handles exports of oil and gas-related products, as well as imports of general cargo.
• Port of Douala-Bonabéri:
  This is a specific terminal within the Port of Douala, dedicated to handling containerized cargo. It is equipped with container yards, cranes, and other facilities to facilitate efficient container handling operations.
• Port of Tiko:
  Situated in the town of Tiko, the Port of Tiko is a smaller port that mainly handles exports of cocoa and other agricultural products. It is strategically located near the cocoa-producing regions of Cameroon

What are the most imported items in Cameroon?

1. Petroleum products: Including gasoline, diesel, and other refined petroleum products.
2. Machinery and mechanical appliances: Such as machinery parts, generators, pumps, and electrical machinery.
3. Vehicles and automotive parts: Including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and their components.
4. Pharmaceuticals and medical equipment: Including medicines, medical instruments, and healthcare supplies.
5. Iron and steel products: Such as iron rods, steel structures, and construction materials.
6. Electrical machinery and equipment: Including electronic devices, appliances, and telecommunications equipment.
7. Rice: Cameroon imports rice to meet domestic consumption needs.
8. Wheat: Wheat is imported for various purposes, including bakery and food processing.
9. Plastics and plastic products: Including plastic materials, packaging, and household items.
10. Textiles and clothing: Including fabrics, garments, and apparel.

Which countries are the biggest exporters to Cameroon?

1. China
2. Nigeria
3. France
4. Belgium
5. Germany
6. United States
7. India
8. Netherlands
9. United Arab Emirates
10. Thailand
11. Italy
12. South Korea
13. Spain
14. Switzerland
15. United Kingdom
16. Turkey
17. Brazil
18. Malaysia
19. Canada
20. Russia

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