By Hope Nda
A new tax regime on imported mobile phones, tablets and other digital devices came into effect in Cameroon on April 1, as the Customs Administration moves to curb illegal imports and strengthen regulation of the digital device sector.
Under the framework, which was first outlined in the 2023 finance law, only mobile phones declared and registered with Customs will be able to function on local networks. The clearance of imported devices will however remain the responsibility of the importer.
During the clearance, imported devices will be assigned a unique IMEI number that will enable authorities to identify and block illegally imported or stolen phones.
The system is also expected to help track and recover stolen devices amid rampant phone theft in the country.
At a press conference in Yaounde on Tuesday, March 31, Customs Director, Edwin Fongod Nuvaga, explained that the tax rates will vary based on the value of the device.
High-prized phones will attract higher duties, while cheaper phones will be taxed less.
Finance Minister Louis Paul Motaze clarified that the measure is not a new tax that will increase retail prices, but rather a regulatory tool to bring order to the sector.
“It constitutes a digitalized solution for the collection of duties and taxes, enabling the Customs Administration to reduce the loss of public revenue, promote tax compliance, and strengthen the fight against digital crime,” the finance boss said.
Devices already connected to the local network before April 1, 2026, when the law came into force, will be considered as having been cleared.
Key Provisions Of New Law
– Importers must declare mobile phones, tablets, and digital terminals via the CAMCIS customs information system at the border and pay applicable duties.
– A national IMEI database will be maintained, and only devices cleared by Customs will be authorized to connect to local networks.
– Local telecom operators are required to configure their systems to block unregistered devices, or face liability.
– Tourists and short-stay visitors may use their devices under a temporary admission regime for up to 30 days, renewable for a cumulative total of 90 days.
– Sellers must allow buyers to verify a device’s customs status before purchase.
– Stock held by phone operators and distributors must be regularized within 60 days.
– Importation or possession of undeclared devices constitutes smuggling and is punishable under existing laws.