Cameroon customs rules & duty-free allowances
Cameroon uses a single-channel customs system: all passengers pass a customs officer, and those with goods to declare must stop at the red desk. Undeclared cash over 6,000,000 XAF risks seizure and fines up to 50% of the amount. These rules apply to non-resident adults arriving in 2026.
Duty-free allowances
Prohibited — banned from import
- Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, heroin, cocaine)
- Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without a permit
- Counterfeit currency and goods
- Pornographic materials
- Endangered species products (ivory, rhino horn, etc.)
- Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration
- Medications containing controlled substances (require prior authorization from Ministry of Public Health)
- Drones and satellite phones (require a permit from the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications)
- Plants, seeds, and live animals (require phytosanitary or veterinary certificate)
- Cultural artifacts and antiques (require an export permit from the Ministry of Arts and Culture)
- Commercial samples and goods for resale (must be declared and duties paid)
Arriving: red vs green channel
Upon arrival, all passengers proceed through the customs area. There is no separate green/red channel; instead, you must stop at the customs desk if you have goods to declare. If you have nothing to declare, walk directly to the exit. You may be asked to open your luggage.
Bringing medication
Personal medications for up to 3 months' supply are allowed with a prescription. Narcotics, psychotropics, and any medication containing codeine or tramadol require prior authorization from the Ministry of Public Health. Some common Western cold medicines (e.g., those containing pseudoephedrine) are controlled.
Food, plants & animal products
All food, plants, seeds, and animal products must be declared. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy are generally prohibited without a phytosanitary certificate. Import of poultry and pork products is banned due to avian flu and ASF risks.
Rules worth knowing
Single-channel system
Cameroon uses a single-channel customs system. There is no green channel; all passengers must pass a customs officer. If you have goods to declare, stop at the red desk. If not, proceed directly to the exit.
Strict enforcement on cash
Cash declarations are taken very seriously. Any amount over 6,000,000 XAF (USD 10,000) must be declared. Undeclared cash can be seized and you may face fines up to 50% of the amount.
Duty-free allowances are per person
All allowances (alcohol, tobacco, goods) are per adult traveller. They cannot be combined with other passengers. Children under 18 have no tobacco or alcohol allowance.