Latest ECTN Policy Changes Across Africa (2025–2026)

As African customs modernize their systems, ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) policies continue to evolve. This article summarizes key policy changes across African countries for 2025–2026, helping exporters stay up-to-date and avoid clearance delays.

Overall Policy Trends

In recent years, African ECTN policies have shown these trends:

• Digital upgrade: More countries moving from paper certificates to fully electronic systems
• Stronger integration: Government systems increasingly connected with shipping line and port systems
• Stricter enforcement: Heavier penalties for shipments without valid certificates
• Growing adoption: More African countries introducing cargo tracking note systems

Key Country-Specific Updates

Nigeria: ICTN System Fully Launched

• Nigeria rolled out the ICTN (Integrated Cargo Tracking Note) system in late 2024
• Replaces previous manual processes with fully online handling
• Required for all shipments to Nigerian ports
• Penalty for missing ICTN: 1%–5% of CIF value

Egypt: ACID System Updates and New Requirements

• Egypt's ACID (Advance Cargo Information Declaration) system continues to be upgraded
• Declaration must be completed at least 48 hours before shipment departure
• Mandatory consignee Tax Identification Number (TIN) requirement added
• Declaration data integrated in real-time with Egyptian customs ACI system

Angola: CNCA Fee Structure Adjustment

• Angola CNCA official fees were adjusted in the first half of 2025
• Calculation method for some cargo types changed from per-shipment to value-based
• Higher-value cargo may see increased costs

Ghana: ECTN Deeply Integrated with Port Systems

• Ghana ECTN system now shares data with Tema and Takoradi port clearance systems
• Cargo without valid ECTN is automatically identified before arrival
• Recommend completing certificate at least 3 days before loading

Democratic Republic of Congo: FERI Penalties Increased

• DRC customs has strengthened FERI enforcement
• Penalty for missing FERI increased from 100% to 150% of CIF value
• Additional demurrage and surcharges apply

Cameroon / Benin / Togo: BESC Digitization Improved

• Multiple French-speaking countries are upgrading BESC systems in parallel
• Online certificate verification now available
• Banks and insurance companies also gaining access to certificate query systems

Notable Changes to Watch

1. Higher Penalties Across the Board

Multiple countries have increased penalties for missing ECTN, shifting from flat dollar amounts to percentages of cargo value. For high-value shipments, penalties can be substantial.

2. Clearer Advance Application Requirements

More countries now explicitly require ECTN validation before loading. Some even require completion 5 days or more before vessel departure.

3. Stricter Information Consistency Checks

As system integration deepens, cross-agency data matching has become standard practice. Any information inconsistency can lead to certificate rejection or cargo detention.

Recommendations for Exporters

1. Stay updated on policy changes: Work with a professional agent to receive timely updates

2. Apply early: Allow sufficient processing time to accommodate potential system delays from policy changes

3. Standardize documents: Ensure all document information is accurate and consistent

4. Choose a reputable agent: Experienced agents know the latest policies and can effectively mitigate risks

Continuous Updates

This article is updated regularly. For the latest information, contact our team for real-time policy guidance.

*Updated: June 2026*