Cameroon ECTN — New Documentation Requirements for RO-RO Vehicle Shipments
The Cameroon National Shippers' Council has introduced new ECTN requirements for RO-RO shipments, effective 1 May 2025. Vehicle importers now need to provide FIMEX registration or a Special Import Authorisation.
If you’re shipping vehicles or rolling stock to Cameroon, there’s an important change to the ECTN process you need to be aware of.
The Cameroon National Shippers’ Council (CNSC) has announced updated documentation requirements for ECTN certificate issuance on roll-on/roll-off (RO-RO) shipments. The new rules take effect from 1 May 2025.
What Has Changed?
Under the new requirements, RO-RO vehicle shipments to Cameroon must now include one of the following additional documents alongside the standard ECTN application:
- FIMEX registration proof — evidence of registration in the Importers/Exporters File (Fichier des Importateurs/Exportateurs), or
- A valid Special Import Authorisation
This is a significant change from the previous process, where standard shipping documents (Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, and freight invoice) were sufficient for all cargo types including vehicles.
How the Process Now Works
Applications can still be submitted from the port of loading as usual. However, the final, authenticated ECTN certificate will only be released once the required additional documentation is provided.
If your cargo doesn’t yet have FIMEX registration, you’ll receive a draft ECTN in the first instance. The full certificate will follow once the FIMEX registration proof or Special Import Authorisation is submitted and verified.
Who Does This Affect?
This change specifically applies to RO-RO shipments — vehicles, trucks, and rolling machinery loaded on roll-on/roll-off vessels or open-top carriers. Standard containerised cargo is not affected by this particular update.
Cameroon is already well-established as one of West Africa’s stricter markets when it comes to cargo documentation. The Douala port has historically been firm on compliance, and the BESC/ECTN requirement has been in place since 2003.
What You Should Do Now
If you have RO-RO shipments to Cameroon in the pipeline, we strongly recommend:
- Checking whether the importer has an active FIMEX registration
- If not, starting the FIMEX registration process or applying for a Special Import Authorisation well in advance of the vessel loading date
- Having all documents ready before applying for the ECTN to avoid receiving only a draft certificate
Our team can guide you through the updated process. Get in touch if you have a Cameroon RO-RO shipment coming up.
Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +971 56 470 4833