From April to early September 2026, Cameroon’s customs authority collected 1.8 billion FCFA (approximately 2.7 million euros) in duties and taxes on imported phones, tablets, and digital devices under the new enforcement system—a dramatic increase from the previous monthly average of just 100 million FCFA. This financial windfall, however, comes at a cost to consumers and businesses grappling with higher prices and operational hurdles.
How the new customs mechanism works
The reform introduced a digitalized declaration and clearance system that classifies imported devices into eight categories based on value. Customs officials now apply a uniform rate of 33.33%, down from the previous 67%, but with broader coverage that leaves fewer devices outside the tax net. Previously undocumented imports—estimated at around five million phones—are now being accounted for, according to customs officials.
Consumer complaints: higher prices and blocked devices
Seydou, a second-hand phone importer operating in Yaoundé, reports that many clients now receive messages warning that their devices will be blocked. “We import second-hand phones that sell locally for between 20,000 and 25,000 FCFA,” he explains. “The customs authorities at the airport don’t always register the serial numbers, and when customers buy these phones, they get messages threatening to block their devices.”
- Retailers like Gérard Fontem have increased prices sharply—some phones now cost nearly double, rising from 45,000 to 85,000 FCFA.
- Consumers are avoiding unregistered devices, but can’t afford the higher prices of fully documented imports.
- Limited availability of verified devices has created supply bottlenecks, further driving up costs.
Who really pays the price?
Paul Olivier Libii, a senior customs inspector and reform focal point in Yaoundé, argues that the reform does not penalize compliant importers. “Those who complain about rising prices are the ones who previously avoided paying taxes,” he states. “Importers who paid based on transaction value at 66% will actually see prices drop under the new system, which levels the playing field by ensuring everyone contributes fairly.”
Digitalization and fairness: the customs perspective
Libii emphasizes that the reform is not about creating new taxes, but about enforcement and fairness. “We reduced the transaction value threshold by up to 85%, introduced eight classification categories ranging from 5,000 to 400,000 FCFA, and lowered the effective tax rate from 67% to 33.33%. The goal is to make compliance easier and close loopholes that allowed over five million phones to evade duties annually.”
Economic impact: revenue vs. consumer sentiment
- State revenue: Customs revenue on imported phones has surged from an average of 100 million FCFA per month to 360 million FCFA over five months.
- Market disruption: Local retailers face reduced sales and declining margins as consumers delay purchases or switch to alternatives.
- Future outlook: Authorities promise to continue digitizing records and tracking serial numbers to curb smuggling and enforce compliance.
What lies ahead for Cameroon’s phone market?
While the customs reform has achieved its fiscal targets, the social and economic consequences are still unfolding. For consumers, higher prices and limited choices remain a daily reality. For importers, the new system introduces clearer rules but also higher operational costs. As the government balances its revenue needs with market stability, all stakeholders are watching closely to see whether this customs overhaul will ultimately support sustainable growth—or further strain an already pressured economy.
