Energy transition in Cameroon: list of new equipment exempt from customs duties for 2026
Circular No. 00000201/MINFI/DGD, signed on 12 February 2026 by Finance Minister Louis Paul Motaze, marks a decisive step towards achieving self-sufficiency in electrical energy and access to water resources in Cameroon. This official document establishes a detailed list of equipment identified by their HS (Harmonized System) code intended for the production of potable water and renewable energy (solar, wind, biomass) that will enjoy a total exemption from customs duties and taxes for a period of 12 months.
Some of the key equipment include photovoltaic panels, deep-cycle batteries, solar cables and pumps, inverters, hydroelectric turbines (up to 1,000 kW), various control and regulation instruments, as well as biogas purification systems and drilling units.
Economic operators who import this equipment duty-free are required to reflect this benefit in their selling prices to end users. Failure to comply may result in penalties under the CEMAC Customs Code. Furthermore, any re-exportation of goods imported under this scheme is subject to prior payment of the duties initially exempted.
In this way, by regulating tax expenditure through specific customs codes, the Cameroonian government aims to support the industrial sector and improve the daily lives of the population, especially in rural areas.
Source: Circular No. 00000201/MINFI/DGD of 12 February 2026 from the Minister of Finance.
