Cameroon customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Cameroon allows duty-free import of 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco, 1L of spirits, and personal goods up to 500,000 XAF (about USD 800). Cash over 1,000,000 XAF (about USD 1,650) must be declared. Strict bans apply to narcotics, counterfeit goods, and certain agricultural products. These rules apply for 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1L of spirits over 22% alcohol, OR 2L of wine or beer. Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$1,650
Any amount equivalent to 1,000,000 XAF (about USD 1,650) or more must be declared on the customs form. Amounts over 10,000 USD equivalent require proof of origin.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to 500,000 XAF (about USD 800) are duty-free. Items above that value are subject to duty and taxes.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Weapons of war, ammunition, and explosives without authorization
  • Pornographic materials
  • Endangered species and products (CITES-listed) without permit
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines and pharmaceuticals (require a prescription or import permit for quantities exceeding personal use)
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require phytosanitary certificate)
  • Firearms and ammunition (require prior authorization from the Ministry of Defence)
  • Satellite phones and encryption equipment (require special permit from the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications)
  • Precious metals and gemstones (require proof of origin and may be subject to export controls)

Rules worth knowing

Temporary import of vehicles

A carnet de passage en douane is required for temporary import of a private vehicle. Without it, a cash deposit equal to the customs duties is demanded.

Prohibited food imports

Fresh meat, poultry, and dairy products from countries with foot-and-mouth disease or avian flu are banned. Canned and sealed commercial products are generally allowed.

Currency declaration

Residents and non-residents must declare any amount exceeding 1,000,000 XAF (about USD 1,650) upon arrival. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.

Duty-free shop purchases

Items bought at duty-free shops outside Cameroon are still subject to the same duty-free limits. Any excess is taxed at the border.

Frequently asked questions

You can bring 1 liter of spirits over 22% alcohol, or 2 liters of wine or beer. You must be at least 18 years old.
You must declare any amount of cash or negotiable instruments equal to or exceeding 1,000,000 XAF (about USD 1,650). Amounts over 10,000 USD equivalent require proof of legal origin.
Yes, for personal use up to 3 months' supply, but carry the prescription or a doctor's note. Larger quantities require an import permit from the Ministry of Public Health.
Drones are restricted. You need prior authorization from the Ministry of Defence and the civil aviation authority. Unauthorized drones may be confiscated.
You must pay customs duties and taxes on the excess value. Rates vary by item, typically 10-30% duty plus 19.25% VAT. You can also abandon the excess goods.
Fresh meat, poultry, and dairy are generally prohibited due to disease risks. Commercially canned or sealed products in small quantities may be allowed, but are subject to inspection.

Official source

Direction Générale des Douanes du Cameroun

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Direction Générale des Douanes du Cameroun before travelling.