Togo customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Arriving in Togo in 2026, you can bring in 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco and 1 liter of spirits duty-free. Cash over 10,000 USD must be declared. Narcotics and counterfeit goods are strictly prohibited.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% alcohol, OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Must be 18 or older.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount equivalent to 10,000 USD or more must be declared on the customs arrival form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to a value of 800 USD are duty-free. Items above that value are subject to customs duties and taxes.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with special authorization)
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated items
  • Firearms and ammunition without a permit
  • Explosives and fireworks
  • Endangered species and products (CITES-listed)
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use (must have prescription or doctor's note; over 3 months' supply requires authorization)
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require phytosanitary certificate)
  • Drones and radio communication equipment (require prior approval from the Togolese telecommunications authority)
  • Precious metals and gemstones (must be declared; commercial quantities require a permit)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (require export certificate from the Ministry of Culture)

Rules worth knowing

Temporary import of vehicles

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

Currency export limit

Residents and non-residents can export up to 500,000 XOF (about 800 USD) without declaration. Above that, you need authorization from the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO).

Duty-free shops at Lomé Airport

Duty-free purchases at Lomé–Tokoin Airport are limited to the standard allowances. Keep receipts for inspection.

Gifts and samples

Commercial samples and gifts valued over 800 USD are subject to duty. You may need a temporary import bond for samples.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but you must declare it on arrival. Duty is assessed at the customs office based on the type and value of the alcohol. Rates vary, typically around 20-30% plus VAT.
Customs can seize the undeclared amount and impose a fine of up to 50% of the value. You may also face legal proceedings.
Yes. Meat, dairy, and fresh produce are restricted. You need a phytosanitary certificate. Processed and packaged foods for personal use are generally allowed in small quantities.
No, personal electronics for your own use are not normally declared. But if they are new and expensive, customs may ask for proof of ownership to ensure they are not for resale.
Yes, with a prescription or doctor's note. Carry no more than a 3-month supply. For larger amounts, you need prior authorization from the Togolese Ministry of Health.
Penalties range from confiscation and fines to imprisonment, depending on the item. Narcotics offenses carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences.

Official source

Direction Générale des Douanes Togolaises (Togo Customs)

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