Stay informed about the latest changes in cargo tracking certificate requirements, port regulations, and trade compliance updates across Africa and MENA.
These are the situations we see come through most often — shippers who knew they needed a certificate but still ended up with cargo stuck at the destination. Here's what goes wrong, and how to avoid it.
The process for getting an ECTN, BESC, or CTN certificate is essentially the same regardless of the destination country. Here's exactly what to do, in the right order, so your shipment doesn't get delayed.
The core documents are the same across most African countries — but several have specific additional requirements that catch shippers off guard. This is the complete reference.
Sudan ACD applications now require five documents, with the Packing List added as the latest mandatory item. ACD certification becomes compulsory for all Sudan-bound shipments from 1 January 2026.
Sudan's Sea Ports Corporation has confirmed that ACD certification will be compulsory for all cargo destined for Sudan from 1 January 2026. The ACD number must appear on the Bill of Lading.
The Sudan Customs Authority has added the Certificate of Origin to the list of mandatory documents for all ACD applications. All four documents must be submitted together.
The Egyptian Customs Authority has confirmed that the Advance Cargo Information (ACI) system will be mandatory for all air shipments to Egypt from 1 January 2026.
Sudan's Advanced Cargo Declaration is mandatory from 1 January 2026 for all cargo bound for Sudan. This guide covers what the ACD is, why it's needed, what documents are required, and how the process works.
Effective immediately, earth-moving machinery, large trucks on flat tracks, and oversized cargo that doesn't fit in a standard container will be charged under RORO rates for Liberia CTN purposes.
Mali's Customs Authority has reissued a reminder that the ECTN must be obtained at the port of loading for all cargo destined for Mali. Cargo without valid documentation faces penalties and delays.
The Ministry of Ports and Marine Transport of Somalia has confirmed that all containers arriving at Somali ports must be accompanied by a valid ECTN from 14 October 2025.
Djibouti authorities have confirmed that penalties are now being actively enforced for cargo arriving without a valid ECTN certificate. Here's what you need to know to avoid fines.
The Cameroon BESC/ECTN certificate must be validated at least 48 hours before the vessel arrives at the destination port. Miss that deadline and you're looking at fines, delays, or cargo being held.
Angola has extended import licensing requirements to specific vehicle components under Presidential Decree No. 155/20. ANTT prior authorisation is now required for engines, gearboxes, chassis, and other listed parts.
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.
As of 1 February 2025, all containerised shipments to Yemen must carry a valid ACD certificate. The requirement is enforced by Yemen's Counter Terrorism Service.
Libya's planned Advanced Cargo Information requirement has been postponed indefinitely. Shipments can continue without an ACI number until further notice.
Yemen's Ministry of Transport has announced that the Advanced Cargo Declaration (ACD) will be mandatory for all shipments to Yemeni ports from 1 January 2025.
The Gambia CTN Certificate, which had only just come into effect in May 2023, has been suspended indefinitely. Here's what this means for shippers.
Djibouti Ports and Free Zone Authority has made the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note mandatory for all shipments. The requirement has been in force since 15 June 2023.
Somalia has made the ECTN reference number mandatory on all Bills of Lading for shipments destined for the country, effective 29 April 2023.
Burkina Faso now requires an ECTN Reference Number on all Bills of Lading for cargo destined for the country. The regulation took effect on 20 April 2023.
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