Cameroon speeds up regulation of the cell phone market. The mechanism for collecting customs duties on imported phones came into force on April 1, 2026, under the coordination of the Directorate General of Customs. In this way, the authorities are further structuring a rapidly expanding sector.

Importers now at the heart of the system

In practical terms, importers now declare all devices as they enter the country. They transmit their IMEI codes and pay customs duties via a dedicated digital platform. What's more, the importer becomes the main party liable for payment, rather than the end consumer.

In addition, the system is based on the CAMCIS customs information system, which centralizes the declaration, liquidation and payment of duties. At the same time, telephone operators receive device identifiers and block access to the local network for unregistered terminals.

Through this reform, the authorities are boosting tax revenues, combating fraud and improving the traceability of phones in circulation. Indeed, this sector has long generated substantial losses for the State.

Market impact still uncertain

Officially, this measure has no direct impact on consumers. Phones already in service are not affected, and benefit from a tax amnesty. However, some market players remain cautious, citing a risk of indirect price increases.

Cameroon has thus entered a new phase in the modernization of its digital tax system. It remains to be seen what concrete effects this will have on the market in the coming weeks.

Anita MENOUNGA