As a general introduction, promoters or company founders are usually contemplating on the approach of the company registration process in Cameroon. As a result, several questions are being asked as to whether there exist a unique process in company incorporation in Cameroon. We have therefore established below the 7 unique steps to register a company in Cameroon which is generally applicable in Cameroon.

HOW TO REGISTER A COMPANY IN CAMEROON (7 STEPS)

Step 1: Select your company type

The first step for every interested person to register a company in Cameroon is to select the type of company. In accordance with the OHADA Law https://www.droit-afrique.com/uploads/OHADA-Uniform-Act-1997-commercial-companies.pdf the following types of companies can be selected by a person to be registered in Cameroon;

• A Limited Liability Company or a Private Limited Company (Société à Responsabilité Limitée – SARL)
• Public Limited Company (Société Anonyme – SA)
• Private Company (P.C)
• Branch Company (Succursale)
• Subsidiary Company

Step 2: Select a company name

One of the tenets of how to register a company in Cameroon is to select a suitable name for the company. The selection must be done with due diligence and proper consultancy with a corporate attorney in order to avoid the name of the company being rejected for the following qualities;

• Misleading to the Public
• Immoral in nature
• Offensive in nature
• Contrary to public policy

Apart from the above vices to the name of a company to be registered in Cameroon, choosing a name which is similar to the name of another existing company will lead to patent and trademark litigation. https://www.international-powerlaw-alliance.com/business/copyright-and-trademark-registration-in-cameroon/

Step 3: Select company personnel (Shareholder(s), Manager(s), Director(s) and Auditor(s)

One of the tenets of how to register a company in Cameroon is to select the personnel required for the registration process to be complete. This selection will be dependent on the type of company the interested person has decided to register in Cameroon. The distinction as per the types of company is as follows;

1. Public Limited Company (Société Anonyme – SA)

• Shareholder(s),
• Directors(s), and
• Auditors

2. Limited Liability Company (Société à Responsabilité Limitée – SARL)

• Shareholder(s), and
• Manager(s)

3. Private Company

• Trader(s) and
• Manager(s)

4. Branch Company of a Public Limited Company

• Director(s)

5. Branch company of a Private Limited Company

• Manager(s)

6. Subsidiary company (Share capital below 10,000,000 XAF)

• Shareholder(s)
• Manager(s)

7. Subsidiary company (Share capital above 10,000,000 XAF)

• Shareholder(s)
• Director(s)
• Auditor(s)

In addition to the above selection criteria per type of company, one of the principles of determining how to register a company in Cameroon ( https://www.international-powerlaw-alliance.com/registration/register-a-company-in-cameroon/ ) is to ensure that all the selected personnel meet the general requirements as follows;

• Must possess a valid passport or ID Card.
• Must be of age 18 years and above.
• Must not be bankrupt from their country of origin or Cameroon.
• Must provide an authorizing document from the parent company if a subsidiary company is to be registered in Cameroon.
• Must not suffer from insanity.
• Must possess a good criminal record which is evidenced through a non-crime certificate.

Step 4: Select the amount of Share Capital

The process of how to register a company in Cameroon entails the interested person to decide how mush share capital should be allocated to the company. In this regard, the share capital to be decided are as follows;

• Less than 1,000,000 XAF (Seing privé)
• Less than 10,000,000 XAF (Limited Liability Company /Société à Responsabilité Limitée – SARL)
• Above 10,000,000 XAF (Public Limited Company/ Société Anonyme – SA)

Step 5: Register your company

How to Register a company in Cameroon

a. Mandatory clauses of the Articles of Association for a company to be registered in Cameroon

• Name: Every company to be registered in Cameroon must have a name which will end with the abbreviation “LTD or SARL” or written eligibly in full “Limited/Société à Responsabilité Limitée” for a Private Limited Company, the abbreviation “PLC or SA” or written eligibly in full “Public Limited Company/ Société Anonyme) for a Public Limited Company, and the abbreviation “P.C.” or in full “Private Company” for a Private Company.
• Company Address: Every procedure to register a company in Cameroon must take into account the address in which the company will be located. The address clause always entails a principal address of the company head office or administrative office and another clause that branch offices can be opened in all the other regions of Cameroon.
• Authorized Share Capital: Every procedure to register a company in Cameroon must take into account the authorized share capital of the type of company. As such, as illustrated above, one of the principles of how to register a company in Cameroon is for the company founders to decide on the share capital of the company. In this case, the Articles of Association must contain the share Capital of either below 1,000,000 XAF, below 10,000,000 XAF or above 10,000,000 XAF representing the share capital of a Private Limited Company and a Public Limited Company respectively.
• Duration/Life span: The Lifespan of a company is usually not more than 99 years of existence and must be mentioned in the Articles of Association.
• Business Objectives: Every procedure to register a company in Cameroon must take into account the business objectives of the company. As one of the fundamental principles on how to register a company in Cameroon, the founder(s) can put in place the business objective of the company. These objectives will determine the line of activity for the company and the tax measures. Some of such objectives include: Mining, General Commerce, Banking, Agriculture, Import and Export, transport etc.
• Shareholding Ratio: Every interested person desirous to complete the procedure to register a company in Cameroon must ensure that the shareholding ratio is instituted in the Articles of Association. This ratio is determinant of the shares allocated to each shareholder. Hence, as one of the fundamental principles on how to register a company in Cameroon, the founder can allocate shares based on a percentage such as 60%, 40%, 30% etc. the percentage of the share allotted to a share holder must also be reflected in money value.
• Information of Shareholder(s): The procedure to register a company in Cameroon must have the detailed information of the shareholder(s) as regards the name, occupation, ID Card or Passport information, address etc. As one of the principles on how to register a company in Cameroon, the shareholders must be properly identified in the Articles of Association of the Company.
• Information of the Manager/Director/Auditor: The process to register a company in Cameroon entails the information as regards the identity of the manager, director and auditor. This information is gotten from their personal identification documents alongside their qualifying certificate. Hence, as a fundamental principle on how to register a company in Cameroon, the qualification of a manager, director and auditor must be mentioned in the Articles of Association of the company.
• Management clause: This clause usually entails the role, remuneration, suspension and dismissal of the manager or director. The question of how to register a company in Cameroon must take into consideration the management clause in the Articles of Association.
• Contribution: The procedure to register a company in Cameroon must take into account the contribution of the founders/shareholders. As a principle of how to register a company in Cameroon, the founder must state in the articles of association of the company the nature of contribution. Contributions as per the OHADA Law are either in cash or otherwise.

b. Documents to be provided by the Shareholder(s), Manager(s), Director(s) and Auditor(s)

• Shareholder(s): Passport or ID Card copy where the shareholder is a physical person. Where the shareholder is a corporate person, the company resolution authorizing the entity to own shares in the new company alongside its incorporation documents. The company resolution will authorize a physical person to represent the company as shareholder in the new company. The procedure to register a company in Cameroon can not be accomplished without the above documents.
• Manager(s)/Director(s): One of the principles to be respected as regards how to register a company in Cameroon is for the manager/director to provide a copy of their Identity Card or Passport, residence and work permit if an expatriate, particular qualifying license if a specialist-oriented company is to be registered.
• Auditor(s): The procedure to register a public limited company in Cameroon must take into consideration the qualifying documents and information of auditors.

c. Documents to be provided by the Notary

In view to fulfil the steps to register a company in Cameroon, the Notary must establish the following documents;

• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Notarized statement of subscription and payment of shares
• Notarized certificate of appointment of company manager
• Declaration of regularity and conformity with the OHADA Law
• Notarized list of company shareholder(s) and company manager
• Localization sketch of business premises.
• A lease contract duly registered at the tax office. www.impots.cm

d. The Offices in which the company is registered in Cameroon

• Centre for Business Creation Formalities (CFCE): To obtain an Attestation of Business Creation.
• Court of First Instance: To obtain a certificate of Incorporation (M.O Form)
• Tax Office: To obtain a Tax payers card (NIU) and stamped Articles of Association. www.impots.cm

e. Documents delivered as proof of incorporation of a company in Cameroon

The procedure to register a company in Cameroon can only be complete when that attorney provides the following documents;

• Certificate of Incorporation
• Certificate of business registration
• Memorandum/Articles of association duly stamped
• Notarized statement of subscription of Shares
• Tax Payer’s Card
• Duly signed notarized sketch

Its important to note that the above documents proof that the company has been registered but cannot go operational.

Step 6: Register for tax declarations

This aspect of the procedure to register a company in Cameroon is fundamental for the company to commence operations. www.impots.cm

At this stage, the directorate of taxes in Cameroon issues to the company a document called a certificate of non-indebtedness (Certificat de non redevance). This document permits a company to have a bank account opened in any accredited commercial bank in Cameroon and begin operations.

The Certificate of non-indebtedness is renewed every three months and it is the basis upon which a company can declare its taxes every 15 of the next month. www.impots.cm , https://www.international-powerlaw-alliance.com/business/tax-compliance-in-cameroon/

Crucial role of the Tax Delegation is as follows

1. Issuance of a Tax Payer’s Card: This document grants to every business owner or company owner a unique identification number (NIU). The procedure to register a company in Cameroon can not be achieved without this tax number being issued. This number must appear on all the correspondences of the registered company in Cameroon. This document is issued in two categories, that is the Simplified tax regime and the Real tax regime.
2. Attestation of Localization: This document is aimed at providing the actual location of the company address in view to facilitate tax control activities and track tax fraud. In this regard, every person desirous to register a company in Cameroon must provide a location plan certified by the tax department.
3. Certificate of Non–Indebtedness: This is the last document issued by the tax delegation. This document permits a company registered in Cameroon to begin operations by opening a bank account. This document is renewed every three months and is very necessary for companies aimed at justifying that their tax situation is up to date.

Step 7: Register at the National Social Insurance Fund

Upon the fulfilment of the procedure to register a company in Cameroon, the company and the workers have to get registered at the National Social Insurance Fund in view to ensure the protection of both the employer and employee in cases of industrial accidents, occupational sickness, Pension etc. https://www.cnps.cm/index.php/en/cnps/missions

SUMMARY ON HOW TO REGISTER A COMPANY IN CAMEROON

In summary, the process to register a company in Cameroon is executed in the following 7 steps below;

Step 1– Select your company type ( https://www.droit-afrique.com/uploads/OHADA-Uniform-Act-1997-commercial-companies.pdf  )

Step 2 – Select your company name  https://www.international-powerlaw-alliance.com/business/copyright-and-trademark-registration-in-cameroon /

Step 3 – Select your company personnel https://www.international-powerlaw-alliance.com/law-todays/office-of-the-manager-private-limited-company /, https://www.international-powerlaw-alliance.com/practice-blogs/office-of-the-chief-executive-officer-publiclimited-company-in-cameroon /

Step 4 – Select the Share Capital

Step 5 – Register Your Company

Step 6 – Register for tax declarations ( www.impots.cm  )

Step 7 – Register at the National Social Insurance Fund (https://www.cnps.cm/index.php/en/cnps/missions  )

ADDITIONAL LICENSES AND PERMITS

After the accomplishment of the 7 key steps to register a company in Cameroon, there may be need depending on the nature of the business venture of the registered company, additional licenses and permits may be required. This is the case with the telecommunication industry, the transport industry, the health industry, the finance industry etc.

CONTINUOUS COMPLIANCE OBLIGATIONS

We can not talk about how to register a company in Cameroon without taking into account the after registration obligation. After the successful company registration process in Cameroon, it is important that the company comply with ongoing regulatory obligations.

This includes the continuous tax filings, filing of annual financial statements, social security obligations, good corporate governance and human resource practices etc.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• How many shareholders should a company have upon registration in Cameroon?

According to Article 309 of the Uniform Act relating to Commercial Companies and Economic Interest Groups of the OHADA Law stipulates that a private limited liability company may be formed by a natural person or a corporate body, or by two or more natural persons or corporate bodies.

Article 385 of the Uniform Act relating to Commercial Companies and Economic Interest Groups of the OHADA Law stipulates that a public limited company may have only a single shareholder.

• What type of shares can be allotted by founders in view to register a company in Cameroon?

The shares which can be allotted by founders of a company are ordinary shares and preference shares.

• What are the types of Companies to register in Cameroon?

1. Public Limited Company ( Société Anonyme – SA )
2. Private Limited Company ( Société à Responsabilité Limitée – SARL )
3. Private Company ( P.C)
4. Subsidiary Public Limited Company
5. Subsidiary Private Limited Company
6. Branch of a Public Limited Company
7. Branch of a Private Limited Company

• Can an expatriate not having a registered address in Cameroon, register a company in Cameroon?

Yes, an expatriate desirous to register a company in Cameroon will either lease an office space in Cameroon to be used as the company head office or pay a law firm a fee to provide a temporal office address to be used for registration and administrative purposes only, pending the actual lease of an office space for the company.

• What is the prove that a company registered in Cameroon is fully operational in Cameroon?

For a company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational, it must show proof of the following documents;

1. A certificate of Incorporation (MO Form)
2. A Tax Payer’s Registration Number ( www.impots.cm )
3. A business License
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A localization plan
6. A Certificate of non-indebtedness ( www.impots.cm )
7. An attestation of Bank account creation
8. A physical office location
9. A matriculation number from the National Social Insurance Fund for the newly registered company in Cameroon https://www.cnps.cm/index.php/en/cnps/missions
10. A matriculation number per staff/worker from the National Social Insurance Fund etc. https://www.cnps.cm/index.php/en/cnps/missions

• What is the time frame to register a company in Cameroon?

15 – 21 working days

• What is the time frame for a company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational?

8 weeks

• Can a foreign company register a subsidiary branch in Cameroon?

A branch office of a foreign company which is not located in a member state of the OHADA region has only a 2 (two) years validity period after which it must be transformed to a fully incorporated subsidiary unless a waiver is obtained from the minister of trade.

However, a subsidiary company registered in Cameroon has a maximum validity period of 99 years like any other registered company in Cameroon.

• Can the bank account of a company registered in Cameroon be opened without the company founders or Shareholders being present in Cameroon?

Yes, by appointing a nominee manager in Cameroon with the authorization to open the company bank account after registration.

• How is corporate governance set up in Cameroon?

An understanding of corporate governance in Cameroon is illustrated in the blog  https://www.international-powerlaw-alliance.com/practice-blog-categories/corporate-practice-blog/

The regime and activities of an employee placement company in Cameroon is regulated by Decree No. 2021 /21 24 /PM of April 24, 2021 fixing the conditions of opening and the minimum rules of operation of temporary work companies.

What is a Temporary employment company under Cameroon law?

Any natural or legal person holding an approval issued by the Minister in charge of employment authorizing it to temporarily make available to companies a workforce that it hires and pays.

What is casual employment under Cameroon law?

Any work intended to absorb an unforeseen increase in the company’s activities, or to carry out urgent work to prevent imminent accidents, to organize rescue measures or to repair equipment, installations or to carry out repairs to equipment, installations or buildings of the company that present a danger to the workers.

What is seasonal employment under Cameroon law?

Any work related to the cyclical or climatic nature of the company’s activities.

What is temporary employment under Cameroon law?

Any temporary work, the purpose of which is either to replace an absent worker or one whose contract is suspended, or to complete a job within a specific period of time requiring the use of additional manpower:

Does an employee placement company in Cameroon need approval?

Yes, from the minister in charge of employment in Cameroon.

What is the duration of a concession agreement for an employee placement company registered in Cameroon?

3 years renewable

Under what conditions can a concession agreement be granted to a registered employee recruitment company in Cameroon?

In line with Article 4 of Decree No. 2021 /21 24 /PM of April 24,2021,  the registered employee recruitment company in Cameroon has to fulfil the following conditions before an agreement/authorization can be granted;

• A request stamped at the current rate, addressed to the minister in charge of employment issues ;
• A plan or a certificate of location of the company, certified to the Town Hall or the
• the competent tax department;
• A copy of the promoter’s National Identity Card and birth certificate;
• A certificate of nationality and a certificate of residence of the promoter;
• A bank guarantee called “solvency guarantee” of twenty-five million (25 000 000) francs issued by an approved commercial bank;
• A certificate of subscription to a civil liability insurance policy etc.

How many shareholders should an employee placement company have upon registration in Cameroon?

An employee placement company can have as many shareholders as possible. The shareholders can be physical persons or legal persons. However, the shareholders should not be prohibited by the factors of being a convict, bankruptcy or not legally qualified to own shares in a company.

What should promoters look out for prior to register an employee placement company in Cameroon?

The promoters should ensure that they are qualified to be awarded a license/authorization to operate by the Ministry in charge of employment in Cameroon.

The promoters should ensure that the services their company seeks to offer meet the required standards of the industry.

The promoters should also ensure they are not barred from registering a company under Cameroon law.

Under what type of company can an employee recruitment business be registered in Cameroon?

An employee recruitment business can be registered under two forms of companies. A private limited company and a public limited company. This will be based on the minimum share capital to be contributed by the founders upon incorporation of the company.

Are there any financial requirement to be granted an authorization to operate an employee recruitment company in Cameroon?

Yes. 25,000,000FCFA

What are the contributions to be paid to the capital of an employee recruitment company in Cameroon?

Cash contribution, Service contribution and Contribution in kind.

Can a shareholder of a registered employee placement company in Cameroon be a manager?

Yes.

Can a foreign national own 100% shares of an employee placement company in Cameroon?

Yes

What are the mandatory requirements for promoters wishing to register an employee placement company in Cameroon?

Promoters wishing to register an employee recruitment company in Cameroon must fulfil the following mandatory requirements;

1. Must possess a valid Passport or National Identity Card.
2. Must be of age 18 years and above.
3. Must not be bankrupt from their country of origin.
4. Must provide an authorizing document from the parent company if a subsidiary company to be registered in Cameroon.
5. Must not suffer from insanity.
6. Must possess good criminal records, which is evidenced by a non-crime certificate.

Can an employee recruitment company in Cameroon be registered but not operate?

Yes. If the company has not been granted the authorization from the Ministry in charge of employment.

What is the prove that an employee placement company registered in Cameroon is operational?

For an employee recruitment company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational, it must show proof of the following;

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness
7. An attestation of Bank account creation
8. A physical office location
9. A matriculation number from the National Social Insurance Fund for the newly registered company in Cameroon
10. A matriculation number per staff/worker from the National Social Insurance Fund
11. An authorization from the ministry in charge of employment.

What information is required to register an employee placement company in Cameroon?

To register an employee placement company in Cameroon, the corporate attorney is enjoined by law to request some mandatory information from the company promoters/ founders. This information enables the registration the company in Cameroon to be successful irrespective of whether the founders/promoters are in Cameroon or abroad.

In accordance with section 262 of the Uniform Act relating to commercial companies and economic interest groups of the OHADA Law, the following information is required from the company founders;

1. Name of company
2. Form of company (Public Limited Company or Private Limited Company)
3. Objectives of the company
4. Copy of shareholder(s) identification documents
5. Non-crime certificate
6. Company startup capital
7. Copy of identification document of company Manager or General Manager etc.

What documents have to be established by the corporate attorney? Legal assistance to register an employee placement company in Cameroon.

The corporate attorney is to establish the following documents which will be subject to registration;

• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Notarized statement of subscription and payment of shares
• Notarized certificate of appointment of company manager
• Declaration of Regularity and Conformity with the OHADA Law
• Notarized list of company shareholder (s) and company manager (s)
• Location sketch of business premises.

Documents delivered upon completion of the registration process

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness

What are the administrative bodies involved of the registration process?

• The Court of First Instance
• The Stamp Duty Office
• The Tax Office
• The Company Registration Office
• The Ministry in charge of employment.

The regime and activities of a Betting company in Cameroon is regulated by Law No. 2015/012 of 16 July 2015 which lay down regulations governing entertainment game, money games and games of chance in Cameroon and Decree No. 2019/2300 of 18 July 2019 precising the modalities of application of the 2015 law fixing the regime for games of amusement, money and chance.

What is a Bet under Cameroon law?

A Bet in accordance to section 4 of law No. 2015/012 of 16 July 2015 which lay down regulations governing entertainment game, money games and games of chance in Cameroon is defined as a game in which winnings in cash depends on predicting the result or outcome of a race, contest or competition.  

What is gaming under Cameroon law?

Gaming in accordance to section 4 of law No. 2015/012 of 16 July 2015 which lay down regulations governing entertainment game, money games and games of chance in Cameroon is defined as a leisure activity carried out as a distraction or for winnings in kind or cash, and whose outcome depends, as the case may be, on the player’s dexterity or skills, or on chance.

What is entertainment game under Cameroon law?

An entertainment game according to section 4 of law No. 2015/012 of 16 July 2015 which lay down regulations governing entertainment game, money games and games of chance in Cameroon is defined as a game which sole purpose is distraction, without seeking any winning in kind or cash.

What is money game under Cameroon law?

This is the game in which, in hope of winning, a player wagers money which he cannot recover.

What is game of chance under Cameroon law?

This is the game with the probability of winning in kind or cash, in which chance predominates over skills.

What is online game, online betting or cyber game under Cameroon law?

This is a game or betting in which participation is exclusively through an online public communication service. A bet or game engaged in through terminals used exclusively or mainly for providing gaming, in private premises open to gamblers, in private premises open to the public shall not constitute online gaming or betting.

What is Mutual Bet under Cameroon law?

This is a bet following which the winning players share the total amount staked, pooled in a pot prior to the start of the event concerned, less sundry levies provided for by the laws and regulations inforce and by the operator, with the later being neutral and disinterested as to the outcome of the bet.

What is Odds Betting under Cameroon law?

This is a bet in which, prior to the start or in the course of sporting competitions, the operator offers players odds corresponding to his assessment of the probabilities of occurrence of the results of such competitions on which the players bet. The winnings are fixed, expressed as a multiplier of the stake and guaranteed the players by the operator.

Does a Betting company in Cameroon need approval?

Yes, from the minister in charge of gaming in Cameroon through a concession agreement.

What is the duration of a concession agreement for a Betting company registered in Cameroon?

10 years renewable

Under what conditions can a concession agreement be granted to a registered Betting company in Cameroon?

In line with section 26 of the 2015 law, the registered betting company in Cameroon has to fulfil the following conditions before a concession agreement can be granted;

• Betting type and Technical specifications.
• Protection of minors.
• Training and informing bettors.
• Transparency and security of bettors.
• Employment of nationals.

How many shareholders should a betting company have upon registration in Cameroon?

The betting company can have as many shareholders as possible. The shareholders can be physical persons or legal persons. However, the shareholders should not be prohibited by the factors of being a convict, bankruptcy or not legally qualified to own shares in a company.

What should promoters look out for prior to register a betting company in Cameroon?

The promoters should ensure that they are qualified to be awarded a license/authorization to operate by the Ministry in charge of gaming in Cameroon.

The promoters should ensure that the services their company seeks to offer meet the required technical standards of the industry.

The promoters should also ensure they are not barred from registering a company under Cameroon law.

Under what type of company can a betting business be registered in Cameroon?

A betting business can be registered under two forms of companies. A private limited company and a public limited company. This will be based on the minimum share capital to be contributed by the founders upon incorporation of the company.

Are there any financial requirement to be granted a concession agreement to operate a betting company in Cameroon?

Yes. They are as follows;

Category A – 100,000,000FCFA

Category B – 50,000,000FCFA

How many concession agreements are granted to a registered betting company in Cameroon?

Two types as follows;

Category A concession agreement for operators having a turnover of above 3 billion francs cfa.

Category B Concession agreement for operators having a turnover of below 3 billion francs cfa.

What are the contributions to be paid to the capital of a betting company in Cameroon?

Cash contribution, Service contribution and Contribution in kind.

Can a shareholder of a registered betting company in Cameroon be a manager?

Yes.

Can a foreign national own 100% shares of a betting company in Cameroon?

Yes

What are the mandatory requirements for promoters wishing to register a betting company in Cameroon?

Promoters wishing to register a betting company in Cameroon must fulfil the following mandatory requirements;

1. Must possess a valid Passport or National Identity Card.
2. Must be of age 18 years and above.
3. Must not be bankrupt from their country of origin.
4. Must provide an authorizing document from the parent company if a subsidiary company to be registered in Cameroon.
5. Must not suffer from insanity.
6. Must possess good criminal records, which is evidenced by a non-crime certificate.

Can a betting company in Cameroon be registered but not operate?

Yes. If the company has not been granted the authorization/concession from the Ministry in charge of gaming.

What is the prove that a betting company registered in Cameroon is operational?

For a betting company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational, it must show proof of the following;

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness
7. An attestation of Bank account creation
8. A physical office location
9. A matriculation number from the National Social Insurance Fund for the newly registered company in Cameroon
10. A matriculation number per staff/worker from the National Social Insurance Fund
11. An authorization/concession from the ministry in charge of gaming.

What information is required to register a betting company in Cameroon?

To register a betting company in Cameroon, the corporate attorney is enjoined by law to request some mandatory information from the company promoters/ founders. This information enables the registration the company in Cameroon to be successful irrespective of whether the founders/promoters are in Cameroon or abroad.

In accordance with section 262 of the Uniform Act relating to commercial companies and economic interest groups of the OHADA Law, the following information is required from the company founders;

1. Name of company
2. Form of company (Public Limited Company or Private Limited Company)
3. Objectives of the company
4. Copy of shareholder(s) identification documents
5. Non-crime certificate
6. Company startup capital
7. Copy of identification document of company Manager or General Manager etc.

What documents have to be established by the corporate attorney? Legal assistance to register a betting company in Cameroon.

The corporate attorney is to establish the following documents which will be subject to registration;

• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Notarized statement of subscription and payment of shares
• Notarized certificate of appointment of company manager
• Declaration of Regularity and Conformity with the OHADA Law
• Notarized list of company shareholder (s) and company manager (s)
• Location sketch of business premises.

Documents delivered upon completion of the registration process

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness

What are the administrative bodies involved of the registration process?

• The Court of First Instance
• The Stamp Duty Office
• The Tax Office
• The Company Registration Office
• The Ministry in charge of gaming.

The regime and activities of a private audiovisual communication company is regulated by Decree No. 2000/158 of 03 April 2000 fixing the conditions and modalities for the creation and operation of private audiovisual communication companies in Cameroon.

How many shareholders should a private audiovisual communication company have upon registration in Cameroon?

A private audiovisual communication company can have as many shareholders as possible. The shareholders can be physical persons or legal persons. However, the shareholders should not be prohibited by the factors of being a convict, bankruptcy or not legally qualified to own shares in a company.

What should promoters look out for prior to register a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon?

The promoters should ensure that they are qualified to be awarded a license to operate by the Ministry of Forestry in Cameroon.

The promoters should also ensure they are not barred from registering a company under Cameroon law.

Under what type of company can a private audiovisual communication business be registered in Cameroon?

A private audiovisual communication business can be registered under two forms of companies. A private limited company and a public limited company. This will be based on the minimum share capital to be contributed by the founders upon incorporation of the company.

What are the contributions to be paid to the capital of a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon?

Cash contribution, Service contribution and Contribution in kind.

Can a shareholder of a registered private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon be a manager?

Yes.

Can a foreign national own 100% shares of a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon?

According to Article 19 of Decree No. 2000/158 of 03 April 2000 no natural or legal person may be a shareholder in more than one private communication enterprise or company.

The law did not place any restriction on the percentage of shares to be owned by a natural or legal person in a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon.

This therefore means that by implication a foreigner can own 100% shares in a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon.

Are there any restriction on expatriate employee recruitment for a registered private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon?

According to Article 21 of Decree No. 2000/158 of 03 April 2000, foreign nationals employed in a private audiovisual communication company may not exceed five percent of the workforce.

What permits are required for the operation of a registered private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon?

Category 1 and category 2 licenses.

What are the mandatory requirements for promoters wishing to register a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon?

Promoters wishing to register a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon must fulfil the following mandatory requirements;

1. Must possess a valid Passport or National Identity Card.
2. Must be of age 18 years and above.
3. Must not be bankrupt from their country of origin.
4. Must provide an authorizing document from the parent company if a subsidiary company to be registered in Cameroon.
5. Must not suffer from insanity.
6. Must possess good criminal records, which is evidenced by a non-crime certificate.

Can a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon be registered but not operate?

Yes. If the company has not been granted the authorization/license from the Ministry in charge of Communication.

What is the prove that a private audiovisual communication company registered in Cameroon is operational?

For a private audiovisual communication company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational, it must show proof of the following;

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness
7. An attestation of Bank account creation
8. A physical office location
9. A matriculation number from the National Social Insurance Fund for the newly registered company in Cameroon
10. A matriculation number per staff/worker from the National Social Insurance Fund
11. A license from the Ministry in Charge of Communication.

What information is required to register a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon?

To register a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon, the corporate attorney is enjoined by law to request some mandatory information from the company promoters/ founders. This information enables the registration the company in Cameroon to be successful irrespective of whether the founders/promoters are in Cameroon or abroad.

In accordance with section 262 of the Uniform Act relating to commercial companies and economic interest groups of the OHADA Law, the following information is required from the company founders;

1. Name of company
2. Form of company (Public Limited Company or Private Limited Company)
3. Objectives of the company
4. Copy of shareholder(s) identification documents
5. Non-crime certificate
6. Company startup capital
7. Copy of identification document of company Manager or General Manager etc.

What documents have to be established by the corporate attorney? Legal assistance to register a private audiovisual communication company in Cameroon.

The corporate attorney is to establish the following documents which will be subject to registration;

• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Notarized statement of subscription and payment of shares
• Notarized certificate of appointment of company manager
• Declaration of Regularity and Conformity with the OHADA Law
• Notarized list of company shareholder (s) and company manager (s)
• Location sketch of business premises.

Documents delivered upon completion of the registration process

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness

What are the administrative bodies involved of the registration process?

• The Court of First Instance
• The Stamp Duty Office
• The Tax Office
• The Company Registration Office
• The Ministry in charge of Communication.

The regime and activities of a casino gaming company in Cameroon is regulated by Law No. 2015/012 of 16 July 2015 which lay down regulations governing entertainment game, money games and games of chance in Cameroon and Decree No. 2019/2300 of 18 July 2019 precising the modalities of application of the 2015 law fixing the regime for games of amusement, money and chance.

What is a casino under Cameroon law?

A casino in accordance to section 4 of law No. 2015/012 of 16 July 2015 which lay down regulations governing entertainment game, money games and games of chance in Cameroon is defined as a gambling establishment also engaging in shows or catering, where so-called counterpart games and circle games are played and slot machines operated.

What is gaming under Cameroon law?

Gaming in accordance to section 4 of law No. 2015/012 of 16 July 2015 which lay down regulations governing entertainment game, money games and games of chance in Cameroon is defined as a leisure activity carried out as a distraction or for winnings in kind or cash, and whose outcome depends, as the case may be, on the player’s dexterity or skills, or on chance.

What is entertainment game under Cameroon law?

An entertainment game according to section 4 of law No. 2015/012 of 16 July 2015 which lay down regulations governing entertainment game, money games and games of chance in Cameroon is defined as a game which sole purpose is distraction, without seeking any winning in kind or cash.

What is money game under Cameroon law?

This is the game in which, in hope of winning, a player wagers money which he cannot recover.

What is game of chance under Cameroon law?

This is the game with the probability of winning in kind or cash, in which chance predominates over skills.

Does a casino gaming company in Cameroon need approval?

Yes, from the minister in charge of gaming in Cameroon through a concession agreement.

What is the duration of a concession agreement for a casino gaming company registered in Cameroon?

10 years renewable

Under what conditions can a concession agreement be granted to a registered casino gaming company in Cameroon?

In line with section 19 of the 2015 law, the registered casino gaming company in Cameroon has to fulfil the following conditions before a concession agreement can be granted;

• Technical requirement of quality, comfort and security of premises must be according to internationally acceptable standards.
• The number, type and specification of gaming machines, apparatuses and other equipment to be used must comply with the model approved by the Ministry in charge of gaming.
• The casino’s operating as well as administrative and functioning conditions must be subscribed to an annual insurance policy.
• The casino’s operator’s arrangements for contributing towards financing economic, socio-cultural, health or sports development projects and programs in the community concerned etc.

How many shareholders should a casino gaming company have upon registration in Cameroon?

The company can have as many shareholders as possible. The shareholders can be physical persons or legal persons. However, the shareholders should not be prohibited by the factors of being a convict, bankruptcy or not legally qualified to own shares in a company.

What should promoters look out for prior to register a casino gaming company in Cameroon?

The promoters should ensure that they are qualified to be awarded a license/authorization to operate by the Ministry in charge of gaming in Cameroon.

The promoters should ensure that the services their company seeks to offer meet the required technical standards of the industry.

The promoters should also ensure they are not barred from registering a company under Cameroon law.

Under what type of company can a casino gaming business be registered in Cameroon?

A casino gaming business can be registered under two forms of companies. A private limited company and a public limited company. This will be based on the minimum share capital to be contributed by the founders upon incorporation of the company.

Are there any financial requirement to be granted a concession agreement to operate a casino gaming company in Cameroon?

Yes. They are as follows;

Category A Casino – 250,000,000 FCFA

Category B Casino – 100,000,000 FCFA

Category C Casino – 50,000,000 FCFA

Category D Casino – 25,000,000 FCFA

What are the contributions to be paid to the capital of a casino gaming company in Cameroon?

Cash contribution, Service contribution and Contribution in kind.

Can a shareholder of a registered casino gaming company in Cameroon be a manager?

Yes.

Can a foreign national own 100% shares of a casino gaming company in Cameroon?

Yes

What are the mandatory requirements for promoters wishing to register a casino gaming company in Cameroon?

Promoters wishing to register an casino gaming company in Cameroon must fulfil the following mandatory requirements;

1. Must possess a valid Passport or National Identity Card.
2. Must be of age 18 years and above.
3. Must not be bankrupt from their country of origin.
4. Must provide an authorizing document from the parent company if a subsidiary company to be registered in Cameroon.
5. Must not suffer from insanity.
6. Must possess good criminal records, which is evidenced by a non-crime certificate.

Can a casino gaming company in Cameroon be registered but not operate?

Yes. If the company has not been granted the authorization/concession from the Ministry in charge of gaming.

What is the prove that a casino gaming company registered in Cameroon is operational?

For a casino gaming company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational, it must show proof of the following;

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness
7. An attestation of Bank account creation
8. A physical office location
9. A matriculation number from the National Social Insurance Fund for the newly registered company in Cameroon
10. A matriculation number per staff/worker from the National Social Insurance Fund
11. An authorization/concession from the ministry in charge of gaming.

What information is required to register a casino gaming company in Cameroon?

To register a casino gaming company in Cameroon, the corporate attorney is enjoined by law to request some mandatory information from the company promoters/ founders. This information enables the registration the company in Cameroon to be successful irrespective of whether the founders/promoters are in Cameroon or abroad.

In accordance with section 262 of the Uniform Act relating to commercial companies and economic interest groups of the OHADA Law, the following information is required from the company founders;

1. Name of company
2. Form of company (Public Limited Company or Private Limited Company)
3. Objectives of the company
4. Copy of shareholder(s) identification documents
5. Non-crime certificate
6. Company startup capital
7. Copy of identification document of company Manager or General Manager etc.

What documents have to be established by the corporate attorney? Legal assistance to register a casino gaming company in Cameroon.

The corporate attorney is to establish the following documents which will be subject to registration;

• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Notarized statement of subscription and payment of shares
• Notarized certificate of appointment of company manager
• Declaration of Regularity and Conformity with the OHADA Law
• Notarized list of company shareholder (s) and company manager (s)
• Location sketch of business premises.

Documents delivered upon completion of the registration process

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness

What are the administrative bodies involved of the registration process?

• The Court of First Instance
• The Stamp Duty Office
• The Tax Office
• The Company Registration Office
• The Ministry in charge of gaming.

The regime and activities of an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon is regulated by the CEMAC Merchant Shipping Community code of 3 August 2001 as amended on the 22^nd August 2012.

What is an offshore maritime company in Cameroon?

An offshore maritime company is a company which offers a range of marine services such as supporting oil and gas operations, engineering and project management, renewable energy and transmission, offshore construction and installation, offshore survey and positioning.

What is a classification society company in Cameroon?

A classification society company in Cameroon is a company specialized in the inspection of vessel structures during construction and commissioning to confirm that the ship designs and technical standards meet with class rules. They set technical standards based on their expertise in the shipping industry, experience and research.

Does an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon need approval?

Yes, from the ministry of transport specifically under the maritime directorate in Cameroon.

Under what conditions can an approval/authorization be granted to a registered offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon?

The maritime authorities will have to evaluate the technical standards and competence of the Cameroon registered company in view to render offshore maritime services and services on vessels before an approval/authorization to operate will be granted.

How many shareholders should an offshore maritime and classification society company have upon registration in Cameroon?

The company can have as many shareholders as possible. The shareholders can be physical persons or legal persons. However, the shareholders should not be prohibited by the factors of being a convict, bankruptcy or not legally qualified to own shares in a company.

What should promoters look out for prior to register an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon?

The promoters should ensure that they are qualified to be awarded a license/authorization to operate by the Ministry of transport in Cameroon.

The promoters should ensure that the services their company seeks to offer meet the required technical standards of the industry.

The promoters should also ensure they are not barred from registering a company under Cameroon law.

Under what type of company can an offshore maritime and classification society business be registered in Cameroon?

An offshore maritime and classification society business can be registered under two forms of companies. A private limited company and a public limited company. This will be based on the minimum share capital to be contributed by the founders upon incorporation of the company.

What are the contributions to be paid to the capital of an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon?

Cash contribution, Service contribution and Contribution in kind.

Can a shareholder of a registered offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon be a manager?

Yes.

Can a foreign national own 100% shares of an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon?

Yes

What are the mandatory requirements for promoters wishing to register an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon?

Promoters wishing to register an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon must fulfil the following mandatory requirements;

1. Must possess a valid Passport or National Identity Card.
2. Must be of age 18 years and above.
3. Must not be bankrupt from their country of origin.
4. Must provide an authorizing document from the parent company if a subsidiary company to be registered in Cameroon.
5. Must not suffer from insanity.
6. Must possess good criminal records, which is evidenced by a non-crime certificate.

Can an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon be registered but not operate?

Yes. If the company has not been granted the authorization from the Ministry of transport.

What is the prove that an offshore maritime and classification society company registered in Cameroon is operational?

For an offshore maritime and classification society company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational, it must show proof of the following;

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness
7. An attestation of Bank account creation
8. A physical office location
9. A matriculation number from the National Social Insurance Fund for the newly registered company in Cameroon
10. A matriculation number per staff/worker from the National Social Insurance Fund
11. An authorization from the ministry of transport.

What information is required to register an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon?

To register an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon, the corporate attorney is enjoined by law to request some mandatory information from the company promoters/ founders. This information enables the registration the company in Cameroon to be successful irrespective of whether the founders/promoters are in Cameroon or abroad.

In accordance with section 262 of the Uniform Act relating to commercial companies and economic interest groups of the OHADA Law, the following information is required from the company founders;

1. Name of company
2. Form of company (Public Limited Company or Private Limited Company)
3. Objectives of the company
4. Copy of shareholder(s) identification documents
5. Non-crime certificate
6. Company startup capital
7. Copy of identification document of company Manager or General Manager etc.

What documents have to be established by the corporate attorney? Legal assistance to register an offshore maritime and classification society company in Cameroon.

The corporate attorney is to establish the following documents which will be subject to registration;

• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Notarized statement of subscription and payment of shares
• Notarized certificate of appointment of company manager
• Declaration of Regularity and Conformity with the OHADA Law
• Notarized list of company shareholder (s) and company manager (s)
• Location sketch of business premises.

Documents delivered upon completion of the registration process

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness

What are the administrative bodies involved of the registration process?

• The Court of First Instance
• The Stamp Duty Office
• The Tax Office
• The Company Registration Office
• The Ministry of Transport.

The regime and activities of a fishing company is regulated by Law No. 94/01 of 20 January 1994 to lay down forestry, wildlife and fisheries regulations in Cameroon.

According to Section 4 of the above law, fishery or fishing, within the context of this law, means the act of capturing or of harvesting any fishery resources or any activity that may lead to the harvesting or capturing of fishery resources, including the proper management and use of the aquatic environment, with a view to protecting the animal species therein by the total or partial control of their life cycle.

What constitutes fishery resources according to Law No. 94/01 of 20 January 1994 to lay down forestry, wildlife and fisheries regulations in Cameroon?

Fishery resources, within the context of this law, means fish, seafood, molluscs and algae from the marine, estuarine and fresh water environments, including sedentary animaIs in such environments.

What kind of fishing operations can a registered fishing company engage in Cameroon?

There are the following types of fishing operations, depending on the means used to obtain fishery resources:

1) Industrial fishing;

2) Semi-industrial fishing;

3) Traditional or small-scale fishing;

4) Sport fishing;

5) Fishing for scientific purposes;

6) Sea farming;

7) Fish farming

What constitutes a fishing vessel in accordance with the 1994 law?

A fishing vessel shal1 be any boat, no matter its size, that is used in activities connected with fisheries.

What is a fishing gear in accordance with the 1994 law?

Fishing gear shall refer to tools, implements or appliances used in fishing operations.

How many kinds of establishment can a fishing company registered in Cameroon operate?

There are two types of establishments a registered fishing company can operate under her umbrella. We have the Fish Processing establishment and the storage and sale establishment.

How many licenses exist for a fishing company registered in Cameroon?

There are three types of fishing licenses;

• The license to catch fish;
• The license to fish for shrimps and other crustaceans;
• The license to fish for tuna, and/or in high sea.

What are the categories of permits a fishing company can apply for in Cameroon?

There are four types of fishing permits to wit:

Permit A – the permit for semi-industrial fishing;

Permit B – the permit for sport fishing;

Permit C – the permit for profit-making small-scale fishjng;

Permit D – the permit for fisheries research.

How many shareholders should a fishing company have upon registration in Cameroon?

A fishing company can have as many shareholders as possible. The shareholders can be physical persons or legal persons. However, the shareholders should not be prohibited by the factors of being a convict, bankruptcy or not legally qualified to own shares in a company.

What should promoters look out for prior to register a fishing company in Cameroon?

The promoters should ensure that they are qualified to be awarded a license to operate by the Ministry of Forestry, wildlife and fisheries in Cameroon.

The promoters should also ensure they are not barred from registering a company under Cameroon law.

Under what type of company can a fishing business be registered in Cameroon?

A fishing business can be registered on two forms of companies. A private limited company and a public limited company. This will be based on the minimum share capital to be contributed by the founders upon incorporation of the company.

What are the contributions to be paid to the capital of a fishing company in Cameroon?

Cash contribution, Service contribution and Contribution in kind.

Can a shareholder of a registered fishing company in Cameroon be a manager?

Yes.

Can a foreign national own 100% shares of a fishing company in Cameroon?

According to section 116 (1) of Law No. 94/01 of 20 January 1994 to lay down forestry, wildlife and fisheries regulations in Cameroon, Any natural person or corporate body wishing to exploit fishery resources at the industrial level shall first of all apply for a license or permit in accordance with the procedure laid down by decree.

What are the mandatory requirements for promoters wishing to register a fishing company in Cameroon?

Promoters wishing to register a fishing company in Cameroon must fulfil the following mandatory requirements;

1. Must possess a valid Passport or National Identity Card.
2. Must be of age 18 years and above.
3. Must not be bankrupt from their country of origin.
4. Must provide an authorizing document from the parent company if a subsidiary company to be registered in Cameroon.
5. Must not suffer from insanity.
6. Must possess good criminal records, which is evidenced by a non-crime certificate.

Can a fishing company in Cameroon be registered but not operate?

Yes. If the company has not been granted the authorization from the Ministry of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries.

What is the prove that a fishing company registered in Cameroon is operational?

For a fishing company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational, it must show proof of the following;

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness
7. An attestation of Bank account creation
8. A physical office location
9. A matriculation number from the National Social Insurance Fund for the newly registered company in Cameroon
10. A matriculation number per staff/worker from the National Social Insurance Fund
11. A fishing exploitation permit/authorization.

What information is required to register a fishing company in Cameroon?

To register a fishing company in Cameroon, the corporate attorney is enjoined by law to request some mandatory information from the company promoters/ founders. This information enables the registration the company in Cameroon to be successful irrespective of whether the founders/promoters are in Cameroon or abroad.

In accordance with section 262 of the Uniform Act relating to commercial companies and economic interest groups of the OHADA Law, the following information is required from the company founders;

1. Name of company
2. Form of company (Public Limited Company or Private Limited Company)
3. Objectives of the company
4. Copy of shareholder(s) identification documents
5. Non-crime certificate
6. Company startup capital
7. Copy of identification document of company Manager or General Manager etc.

What documents have to be established by the corporate attorney? Legal assistance to register a fishing company in Cameroon.

The corporate attorney is to establish the following documents which will be subject to registration;

• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Notarized statement of subscription and payment of shares
• Notarized certificate of appointment of company manager
• Declaration of Regularity and Conformity with the OHADA Law
• Notarized list of company shareholder (s) and company manager (s)
• Location sketch of business premises.

Documents delivered upon completion of the registration process

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness

What are the administrative bodies involved of the registration process?

• The Court of First Instance
• The Stamp Duty Office
• The Tax Office
• The Company Registration Office
• The Ministry of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries.

The activities of an import and export company in Cameroon are exercised in conformity with Law No. 2010/044 of 18th April 2016 governing external trade in Cameroon as well as Decree No. 2017/6523/PM of 7th June 2017.

How many shareholders should an import and export company have upon registration in Cameroon?

An import and export company can have as many shareholders as possible. The shareholders can be physical persons or legal persons. However, the shareholders should not be prohibited by the factors of being a convict, bankruptcy or not legally qualified to own shares in a company.

What should promoters look out for prior to register an import and export company in Cameroon?

The promoters should ensure that the objectives of their company should be import and export business in Cameroon.

The promoters should also ensure they are not barred from registering a company under Cameroon law.

Under what type of company can an import and export business be registered in Cameroon?

A import and export business can be registered under two forms of companies. A private limited company and a public limited company.

This will be based on the minimum share capital to be contributed by the founders upon incorporation of the company.

What are the contributions to be paid to the capital of an import and export company in Cameroon?

Cash contribution, Service contribution and Contribution in kind.

Can a shareholder of a registered import and export company in Cameroon be a manager?

Yes.

Can a foreign national own 100% shares of an import and export company in Cameroon?

Yes.

Who are the parties to obtain an agreement for an import and export company registered in Cameroon?

A manager who is a foreign national must obtain an agreement from the ministry of trade before an import and export license can be granted to the company.

The above provision is not applicable to a Cameroonian citizen who is the manager of a registered import and export company in Cameroon.

Are there any special requirements for an import and export company in Cameroon?  

Yes, not all import license are the same. The license to import and export will be subject to the type of goods to be imported or exported. 

For example, the cost to obtain an import license for pharmaceutical products is different and a special authorization must be given by the Ministry of Health.

The exportation of mineral substances from Cameroon are subject to an authorization from the Minister of mines.

Who can be granted an import and export license in Cameroon?

An enterprise or company duly registered with the objective of engaging in the business of import and export of goods.

What degree of responsibility is given to an import and export company in Cameroon?

The company is not supposed to engage in the importation or exportation of goods considered to be illegal or contraband on the one hand, or goods subject to a special administrative authorization without first obtaining the required approval.

What are the mandatory requirements for promoters wishing to register an import and export company in Cameroon?

Promoters wishing to register an import and export company in Cameroon must fulfil the following mandatory requirements;

1. Must possess a valid Passport or National Identity Card.
2. Must be of age 18 years and above.
3. Must not be bankrupt from their country of origin.
4. Must provide an authorizing document from the parent company if a subsidiary company to be registered in Cameroon.
5. Must not suffer from insanity.
6. Must possess good criminal records, which is evidenced by a non-crime certificate.

Can an import and export company in Cameroon be registered but not operate?

Yes. If the company has not been granted the license/authorization from the Ministry of trade in Cameroon.

What is the prove that an import and export company registered in Cameroon is operational?

For an import and export company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational, it must show proof of the following;

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness
7. An attestation of Bank account creation
8. A physical office location
9. A matriculation number from the National Social Insurance Fund for the newly registered company in Cameroon
10. A matriculation number per staff/worker from the National Social Insurance Fund
11. A license

What information is required to register an import and export company in Cameroon?

To register an import and export company in Cameroon, the corporate attorney is enjoined by law to request some mandatory information from the company promoters/ founders. This information enables the registration the company in Cameroon to be successful irrespective of whether the founders/promoters are in Cameroon or abroad.

In accordance with section 262 of the Uniform Act relating to commercial companies and economic interest groups of the OHADA Law, the following information is required from the company founders;

1. Name of company
2. Form of company (Public Limited Company or Private Limited Company)
3. Objectives of the company
4. Copy of shareholder(s) identification documents
5. Non-crime certificate
6. Company startup capital
7. Copy of identification document of company Manager or General Manager etc.

What documents have to be established by the corporate attorney? Legal assistance to register an import and export company in Cameroon.

The corporate attorney is to establish the following documents which will be subject to registration;

• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Notarized statement of subscription and payment of shares
• Notarized certificate of appointment of company manager
• Declaration of Regularity and Conformity with the OHADA Law
• Notarized list of company shareholder (s) and company manager (s)
• Location sketch of business premises.

Documents delivered upon completion of the registration process

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness

What are the administrative bodies involved in the registration process?

• The Court of First Instance
• The Stamp Duty Office
• The Tax Office
• The Company Registration Office
• Ministry of Trade

The regime and activities of a mining company are regulated by the 2016 mining code of Cameroon.

How many shareholders should a mining company have upon registration in Cameroon?

A mining company can have as many shareholders as possible. The shareholders can be physical persons or legal persons. However, the shareholders should not be prohibited by the factors of being a convict, bankruptcy or not legally qualified to own shares in a company.

What should promoters look out for prior to register a mining company in Cameroon?

The promoters should ensure that they are qualified to be awarded a license to operate by the Ministry of Mines in Cameroon.

The promoters should also ensure they are not barred from registering a company under Cameroon law.

Under what type of company can a mining business be registered in Cameroon?

A mining business can be registered on two forms of companies. A private limited company and a public limited company. This will be based on the minimum share capital to be contributed by the founders upon incorporation of the company.

What are the contributions to be paid to the capital of a mining company in Cameroon?

Cash contribution, Service contribution and Contribution in kind.

Can a shareholder of a registered mining company in Cameroon be a manager?

Yes.

Can a foreign national own 100% shares of a mining company in Cameroon?

According to section 15 (5) of the mining code of 2016, only legal persons under Cameroon law operating in the mining sector shall be granted mining titles.

According to section 22 (1) of the mining code of 2016, only persons of Cameroonian nationality shall carry out non-industrial mining subject to the issuance of an individual non-industrial miners card and a non-industrial mining license.

According to section 27 (1) of the mining code of 2016, the license for a semi-mechanized non-industrial mining shall be granted by the minister in charge of mines to any legal persons governed by Cameroon law.

According to section 31 (1) of the mining code of 2016, the reconnaissance permit shall be granted to legal persons governed by Cameroon law.

According to section 36 of the mining code of 2016, the exploration permit shall be issued to a legal person under Cameroonian law.

According to section 46 (1) of the mining code of 2016, a non-industrial or industrial mining permit shall be granted by right to any holder of an exploration permit who has evidence of the existence of a mineral deposit within his perimeter.

Who are the parties to sign a mining agreement in Cameroon?

A mining agreement in line with section 44(1) of the mining code of 2016 shall be signed between an exploration permit holder and the state with a view to developing and mining or financing a new mineral deposit.

How many types of mining titles can be granted to an applicant?

There a 5 types of mining titles awarded by the Ministry of Mines. They are as follows;

• Non-industrial mining license;
• Semi-mechanized non-industrial mining license;
• Exploration permit;
• Small-scale mining permit;
• Industrial mining permit.

How many types of quarries exist in Cameroon?

There are 4 types of quarries to wit;

• Non-industrial quarries;
• Semi-mechanized non-industrial quarries;
• Public interest quarries;
• Industrial quarries.

Who can be granted a quarry mining license or permit in Cameroon?

Section 69 (1) of the 2016 mining code states that quarry mining license shall be granted to Cameroon nationals and companies governed by Cameroon law who have a lease contract or ownership title after consultation with the competent administrative authorities and neighbouring populations.

Does Spring Water, Mineral and Thermo-Mineral Water form part of the mining regime in Cameroon?

Yes.

Under what circumstance is spring water, mineral and Thermo-mineral water regulated by the Ministry of mines in Cameroon?

If the packaging of spring water, mineral and Thermo-mineral water is intended for public consumption in Cameroon, it must be subject to the issuance of a license by the minister in charge of mines.

What kind of mining activities engage the operator to compensate the victims in Cameroon?

Small scale mining, Industrial mining and public interest quarry.

What degree of responsibility is given to a mining operator in Cameroon?

According to article 133 (1) of the 2016 mining code, any natural or legal person carrying out exploration and mining works pursuant to the law shall be bound to do so according to standard practice and in accordance with the laws and regulations in force, in such a manner as to safeguard the health and safety of persons, workers of the mine and property.

A mining operator also has the responsibility to ensure that environmental protection laws are respected in the course of operations.

Can an interested investor focus only on the marketing of mineral substances in and out of Cameroon?

Yes, but such an investor must have a company registered in Cameroon and obtain the required license from the Ministry of mines in Cameroon.

What license does an investor need to have to be able to market mineral substances in Cameroon?

An individual must in accordance with section 148 of the mining code of 2016 have any one of the following licenses; a valid individual non-industrial mining operator’s card, the individual collector card, a non-industrial mining license, a semi-mechanized non-industrial mining license or a license to open a marketing office.

What are the mandatory requirements for promoters wishing to register a mining company in Cameroon?

Promoters wishing to register a mining company in Cameroon must fulfil the following mandatory requirements;

1. Must possess a valid Passport or National Identity Card.
2. Must be of age 18 years and above.
3. Must not be bankrupt from their country of origin.
4. Must provide an authorizing document from the parent company if a subsidiary company to be registered in Cameroon.
5. Must not suffer from insanity.
6. Must possess good criminal records, which is evidenced by a non-crime certificate.

Can a mining company in Cameroon be registered but not operate?

Yes. If the company has not been granted the license/authorization from the Ministry of mines in Cameroon.

What is the prove that a mining company registered in Cameroon is operational?

For a mining company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational, it must show proof of the following;

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness
7. An attestation of Bank account creation
8. A physical office location
9. A matriculation number from the National Social Insurance Fund for the newly registered company in Cameroon
10. A matriculation number per staff/worker from the National Social Insurance Fund
11. A mining license/permit/authorization.

What information is required to register a mining company in Cameroon?

To register a mining company in Cameroon, the corporate attorney is enjoined by law to request some mandatory information from the company promoters/ founders. This information enables the registration the company in Cameroon to be successful irrespective of whether the founders/promoters are in Cameroon or abroad.

In accordance with section 262 of the Uniform Act relating to commercial companies and economic interest groups of the OHADA Law, the following information is required from the company founders;

1. Name of company
2. Form of company (Public Limited Company or Private Limited Company)
3. Objectives of the company
4. Copy of shareholder(s) identification documents
5. Non-crime certificate
6. Company startup capital
7. Copy of identification document of company Manager or General Manager etc.

What documents have to be established by the corporate attorney? Legal assistance to register a mining company in Cameroon.

The corporate attorney is to establish the following documents which will be subject to registration;

• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Notarized statement of subscription and payment of shares
• Notarized certificate of appointment of company manager
• Declaration of Regularity and Conformity with the OHADA Law
• Notarized list of company shareholder (s) and company manager (s)
• Location sketch of business premises.

Documents delivered upon completion of the registration process

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness

What are the administrative bodies involved in the registration process?

• The Court of First Instance
• The Stamp Duty Office
• The Tax Office
• The Company Registration Office
• The Ministry of Mines in collaboration with the Prime Ministry

The regime and activities of a wood exploitation company is regulated by Law No. 94/01 of 20 January 1994 to lay down forestry, wildlife and fisheries regulations in Cameroon.

How many shareholders should a wood exploitation company have upon registration in Cameroon?

A wood exploitation company can have as many shareholders as possible. The shareholders can be physical persons or legal persons. However, the shareholders should not be prohibited by the factors of being a convict, bankruptcy or not legally qualified to own shares in a company.

What should promoters look out for prior to register a wood exploitation company in Cameroon?

The promoters should ensure that they are qualified to be awarded a license to operate by the Ministry of Forestry in Cameroon.

The promoters should also ensure they are not barred from registering a company under Cameroon law.

Under what type of company can a wood exploitation business be registered in Cameroon?

A wood exploitation business can be registered on two forms of companies. A private limited company and a public limited company. This will be based on the minimum share capital to be contributed by the founders upon incorporation of the company.

What are the contributions to be paid to the capital of a wood exploitation company in Cameroon?

Cash contribution, Service contribution and Contribution in kind.

Can a shareholder of a registered wood exploitation company in Cameroon be a manager?

Yes.

Can a foreign national own 100% shares of a wood exploitation company in Cameroon?

According to section 41 (1) of Law No. 94/01 of 20 January 1994 to lay down forestry, wildlife and fisheries regulations in Cameroon, any natural person or corporate body wishing to carryout forest exploitation activities  shall be granted approval.

(2) Forest exploitation rights may be granted only to natural persons resident in Cameroon, or to companies whose registered offices are in Cameroon and whose shareholders are known to the forestry services.

45 (2) of Law No. 94/01 of 20 January 1994 to lay down forestry, wildlife and fisheries regulations in Cameroon states that standing volume in state production forest may be sold to persons of Cameroonian nationality only, except as provided for in section 77 of same law.

58 of Law No. 94/01 of 20 January 1994 to lay down forestry, wildlife and fisheries regulations in Cameroon same law states that an Exploitation permit and individual felling authorizations may be granted only to persons of Cameroonian nationality to whom various facilities may be given by various professional groups in order to make forest exploitation more accessible to them.

What permits are required for the operation of a registered wood exploitation company in Cameroon?

Forest exploitation permit, concessions and Individual felling authorizations.

What are the mandatory requirements for promoters wishing to register a wood exploitation company in Cameroon?

Promoters wishing to register a wood exploitation company in Cameroon must fulfil the following mandatory requirements;

1. Must possess a valid Passport or National Identity Card.
2. Must be of age 18 years and above.
3. Must not be bankrupt from their country of origin.
4. Must provide an authorizing document from the parent company if a subsidiary company to be registered in Cameroon.
5. Must not suffer from insanity.
6. Must possess good criminal records, which is evidenced by a non-crime certificate.

Can a wood exploitation company in Cameroon be registered but not operate?

Yes. If the company has not been granted the authorization from the Ministry of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries.

What is the prove that a wood exploitation company registered in Cameroon is operational?

For a wood exploitation company registered in Cameroon to be fully operational, it must show proof of the following;

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness
7. An attestation of Bank account creation
8. A physical office location
9. A matriculation number from the National Social Insurance Fund for the newly registered company in Cameroon
10. A matriculation number per staff/worker from the National Social Insurance Fund
11. A forest exploitation permit/authorization.

What information is required to register a wood exploitation company in Cameroon?

To register a wood exploitation company in Cameroon, the corporate attorney is enjoined by law to request some mandatory information from the company promoters/ founders. This information enables the registration the company in Cameroon to be successful irrespective of whether the founders/promoters are in Cameroon or abroad.

In accordance with section 262 of the Uniform Act relating to commercial companies and economic interest groups of the OHADA Law, the following information is required from the company founders;

1. Name of company
2. Form of company (Public Limited Company or Private Limited Company)
3. Objectives of the company
4. Copy of shareholder(s) identification documents
5. Non-crime certificate
6. Company startup capital
7. Copy of identification document of company Manager or General Manager etc.

What documents have to be established by the corporate attorney? Legal assistance to register a wood exploitation company in Cameroon.

The corporate attorney is to establish the following documents which will be subject to registration;

• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Notarized statement of subscription and payment of shares
• Notarized certificate of appointment of company manager
• Declaration of Regularity and Conformity with the OHADA Law
• Notarized list of company shareholder (s) and company manager (s)
• Location sketch of business premises.

Documents delivered upon completion of the registration process

1. A certificate of Incorporation
2. An MO Form registration license
3. A tax payer’s registration number
4. A notarized lease agreement
5. A location plan
6. A certificate of non-indebtedness

What are the administrative bodies involved in the registration process?

• The Court of First Instance
• The Stamp Duty Office
• The Tax Office
• The Company Registration Office
• The Ministry of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries.