🇨🇫 Import Customs & Duties: Central African Republic
Quick Facts
Duty-free threshold
$50
Packages under $50, duty free
VAT / Sales Tax
15%
CIF value + duty. CEMAC community integration tax also applies.
Clearance Time
7-21 days express, 30-60 postal days
typical processing
Duty Rates by Category
| Category | Duty Rate | HS Chapter |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | 5-30% | 85 |
| Clothing | 30% | 61-62 |
| Footwear | 30% | 64 |
| Food & Beverages | 5-30% | 01-24 |
| Machinery | 5-10% | 84 |
| Cosmetics | 30% | 33 |
| Books | 5% | 49 |
| Toys & Games | 20-30% | 95 |
Rates shown are for standard goods. Exact rate depends on the HS code of your item.
Customs Clearance Process
Direction Generale des Douanes manages customs. CEMAC (Central African Economic and Monetary Community) common external tariff applies with 4 bands: 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%. ASYCUDA system for declarations. Landlocked, goods transit via Douala (Cameroon) or Pointe-Noire (Congo). French documentation required.
What to Actually Expect
Conflict-affected country. Security situation severely impacts logistics, especially outside Bangui. Very limited courier services. Goods transit through Cameroon (Douala port) adding weeks. Infrastructure minimal. One of the most challenging import environments in Africa.
Required Documents
Commercial Invoice
Item description, quantity, value, sender and receiver details
Packing List
Detailed description of contents in each package
Customs Declaration (CN22/CN23)
Required for postal shipments
Air Waybill (AWB)
Generated by the carrier when booking the shipment
Certificate of Origin
May be required for reduced duties (FTA/preferential rates)
Export/Import License
For restricted goods (electronics, medicines, chemicals)
Import License Requirements
Import license required from Ministry of Commerce. Strict controls on arms (UN arms embargo), diamonds, and precious stones. Pharmaceuticals require health ministry approval.
Certificate of Origin
CEMAC certificate for regional trade. Chambre de Commerce issues certificates. Consular legalization may be required.
Prohibited & Restricted Items
Prohibited
- xNarcotics and illegal drugs
- xExplosives and flammable materials
- xWeapons and ammunition
- xCounterfeit goods
- xCounterfeit currency and documents
Restricted (permit required)
- !Medicines and pharmaceuticals
- !Food and beverages
- !Plants and seeds
- !Electronics (lithium batteries)
- !Perfumes and cosmetics (volume limits)
Useful Links
Popular routes to Central African Republic
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duty-free threshold for Central African Republic?
The duty-free (de minimis) threshold for imports into Central African Republic is $50. Goods valued below this amount are exempt from customs duties.
What is the VAT rate on imports to Central African Republic?
The VAT/tax rate on imports to Central African Republic is 15%. VAT applies to: CIF value + duty. CEMAC community integration tax also applies.
How long does customs clearance take in Central African Republic?
Typical customs clearance in Central African Republic takes 7-21 days express, 30-60 postal days. Express shipments usually clear faster.
What documents are needed to import into Central African Republic?
To import into Central African Republic, you typically need: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill, and customs declaration. Some goods may require a certificate of origin or import license.
What items are prohibited from import into Central African Republic?
Central African Republic prohibits the import of narcotics, weapons, counterfeit goods, certain animal products, and hazardous materials. Restrictions may also apply to alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, and certain electronics.