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.
In alignment with the Gabonese government’s "Vie Chère" (High Cost of Living) initiative, significant measures have been implemented to reduce the financial burden on consumers. To support this goal, the government has waived duties and taxes on a selection of essential food products subject to price caps.
To ensure your maritime operations remain compliant and cost-effective, we are highlighting several critical regulatory shifts affecting trade with the Republic of the Congo and Gabon. These updates are designed to enhance efficiency while requiring strict adherence to new documentation timelines.
🇨🇬 Republic of the Congo: New ECTN & Customs Mandates
Effective February 1, 2024, a critical regulatory update has been implemented regarding the issuance of the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) for all shipments destined for the Republic of the Congo. To maintain compliance with Congolese customs authorities, shippers must now adhere to updated documentation protocols.
As the official authorized agents for the Levant and Gulf regions, we are committed to providing our partners with the most current regulatory updates to ensure seamless maritime operations. Please take note of the following directive issued by the Burkinabe Shippers' Council (CBC) regarding mandatory documentation standards.
For all maritime traffic destined for the Port of Cotonou, Benin, a validated Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) is a mandatory regulatory requirement. Pelican International Services provides expert facilitation and certification services for shipments originating from all global trade hubs, ensuring your cargo meets Beninese customs standards regardless of the port of loading.
