• Cameroon implements an electronic system to collect import duties on mobile phones, tablets, and other digital devices.
• Customs revenue from mobile devices fell from CFA2 billion ($3.5 million) monthly in the 2000s to CFA100 million in 2025.
• The digital platform CAMCIS strengthens traceability, reduces fraud, and enforces compliance with telecommunications access rules.

Cameroon accelerates the modernization of its customs administration with a fully electronic mechanism for collecting import duties on mobile phones, tablets, and other digital terminals. Authorities aim to improve traceability and curb revenue losses linked to fraud.

Fongod Edwin Nuvaga, Director-General of Customs, presented the system on Thursday, March 19, in Douala. He explained that the system forms part of reforms under the 2023 finance law and relies on CAMCIS, the country’s digital customs platform.

Customs revenue from mobile devices has declined sharply. Data from the administration show monthly collections fell from approximately CFA2 billion ($3.5 million) in the 2000s to CFA100 million in 2025. Authorities attribute the drop to fraud, smuggling, tax non-compliance, and the proliferation of informal entry points.

The new digital system seeks to restore tax fairness, enhance public revenue collection, and strengthen operational transparency.

Importers must declare devices through the digital platform and make payments electronically, improving the traceability of financial flows. Customs will control network access: only properly cleared devices, roaming units, or equipment benefiting from fiscal amnesty may connect to telecommunications networks.

The reform does not introduce new taxes and should not increase device prices. It focuses on securing existing revenue and cleaning up the market.

Authorities implemented transitional measures. Devices already in circulation are considered regularized, and distributors have a grace period to comply with the new rules. Small quantities of undeclared devices may undergo simplified clearance procedures.

The reform involves multiple public institutions, including the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, the Telecommunications Regulatory Agency, and the National Agency for Information and Communication Technologies, alongside private partners. Authorities aim to leverage digital tools to strengthen fiscal governance and market integrity.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum