Central African Republic customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

The Central African Republic enforces a duty-free allowance of 200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco, and 1 liter of alcohol (spirits over 22% ABV) for non-resident adult travellers (18+) in 2026. Cash amounts equivalent to 10,000 USD or more must be declared. Prohibited items include narcotics, counterfeit goods, and certain agricultural products without permits.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, or 2 liters of wine or beer. Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount of cash (XAF or foreign currency) equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared on the customs form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines up to 50% of the amount.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to a total value of USD 800 (or equivalent in XAF) are duty-free. Items above this value are subject to customs duty at rates typically 20-30%.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, cocaine, heroin)
  • Counterfeit currency and goods (including fake branded items)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without prior authorization from the Ministry of Defense
  • Pornographic materials (including digital media)
  • Endangered species and products (e.g., ivory, rhino horn) under CITES
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing narcotics or psychotropics (require a prescription and prior approval from the Ministry of Health)
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require a phytosanitary certificate from the Ministry of Agriculture)
  • Live animals (require an import permit and health certificate)
  • Drones and satellite phones (require prior authorization from the Ministry of Telecommunications)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (require an export permit from the Ministry of Culture)

Rules worth knowing

Currency Declaration

All travellers entering or leaving the Central African Republic must declare any cash (XAF or foreign) exceeding 10,000 USD equivalent. The declaration is made on the customs arrival form. Non-declaration can lead to confiscation and a fine of up to 50% of the amount.

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Non-residents may temporarily import a vehicle for up to 6 months without duty, provided a carnet de passage en douane (CPD) is obtained from an authorized automobile club. After 6 months, duty applies.

Duty-Free Limits for Residents

Residents of the Central African Republic returning from abroad have the same duty-free allowances as non-residents (200 cigarettes, 1L alcohol, USD 800 goods). However, residents must declare any goods exceeding USD 800 and pay duty.

Prohibition on Local Currency Export

Export of Central African CFA francs (XAF) is limited to 500,000 XAF per person. Amounts above this require authorization from the Bank of Central African States (BEAC).

Frequently asked questions

Yes, personal electronics like a laptop and camera are considered personal effects and are duty-free as long as they are for personal use and not for resale. Their value is included in the USD 800 duty-free goods allowance.
You must declare the excess on the customs form. Duty is charged at approximately 30% of the value for alcohol and 25% for tobacco. Failure to declare can result in seizure and a fine.
Yes, if they contain narcotics or psychotropic substances (e.g., codeine, morphine, diazepam). You must carry a doctor's prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining the medical need. Non-narcotic medications in reasonable quantities for personal use do not require declaration.
Yes, processed food items for personal consumption are allowed up to a value of USD 800. However, fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products are restricted and require a phytosanitary certificate. It's best to avoid bringing fresh produce.
Perfume is considered a personal good and is included in the USD 800 duty-free allowance. There is no specific limit on quantity, but amounts deemed for commercial resale may be subject to duty and require a commercial invoice.
If you are transiting through Bangui and staying airside, you generally do not clear customs. However, if you leave the transit area or have checked luggage that must be collected, you will go through customs. Check with your airline for specific transit procedures.

Official source

Direction Générale des Douanes et des Droits Indirects (Central African Republic Customs)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Direction Générale des Douanes et des Droits Indirects (Central African Republic Customs) before travelling.