Key Takeaway: Effective 3 August 2026, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) mandates an Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) Reference Code for all containerized cargo bound for Kenyan ports. The 15-digit code must be obtained at origin and endorsed on the Final Bill of Lading prior to shipment dispatch.
 

Companies shipping cargo to the Central African Republic (CAR) must be aware of an important regulatory change affecting the issuance of the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN).

Effective April 17, 2026, the Ministry of Transport in the Central African Republic has implemented a strict regulatory framework requiring a validated Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (BESC) for all inbound shipments. This mandate is comprehensive, covering every mode of transport including sea, air, road, rail, and river.

In the ever-evolving world of global shipping, ensuring compliance with regulations and documentation requirements is paramount. One such critical requirement is the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN), a document that helps monitor the movement of goods through the supply chain. Recently, however, the industry has witnessed an influx of misleading information circulating about shipping councils “resuming” or “starting” ECTN issuances.

In the fast-paced global economy, the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) has become essential for ensuring secure and efficient trade. This article explores its significance and highlights our expertise in this critical area.

Understanding ECTN

Acquiring an ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) certificate can present several challenges, especially when handled without professional guidance. The ECTN certificate is a mandatory document for certain shipments to and from various African countries, required for the smooth clearance of goods at customs.

In an important development for shipping to Gabon, all BIETC certificates must now be pre-validated before the vessel departs. To facilitate this process, prior agreement is essential, which can be achieved using a simple Bill of Lading (B/L) draft and a commercial invoice.

Key Points to Remember:

1. Pre-Validation Requirement: BIETC certificates must be secured before the vessel leaves port. Issuance of certificates will not be permitted once the vessel has departed.

Recent regulatory updates have been implemented affecting shipping operations in Gabon, Cameroon, and Congo. Here's what you need to know:

Gabon:

BIETC Certificate: Effective immediately, BIETC certificates must be pre-validated before vessel departure. Obtain a draft copy early and ensure approval from your official agent to avoid delays or penalties. Pelship Offshore SAL is the exclusive agent for Lebanon, the Middle East, and Gulf regions.

Cameroon:

In a recent development impacting logistics to Gabon, carriers, shippers, and freight forwarders are now exempted from including BIETC numbers on the Bill of Lading, effective immediately. This procedural change aims to simplify documentation processes while overall BIETC emission remains intact and compulsory through the official agents handling your region.