Several African countries require an ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) certificate for all shipments arriving at their ports. Countries that currently mandate the ECTN include Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, and Togo. Understanding each country's requirements and the correct ECTN application process is essential to ensure smooth customs clearance and avoid penalties or delays.

Why ECTN Is Important for African Trade

African ports use the ECTN system to track cargo before arrival. This ensures better security, accurate customs declarations, and helps governments collect trade statistics. For importers and exporters, obtaining the right ECTN isn’t just a formality—it’s a legal requirement. Without it, shipments can be heavily fined, delayed, or even refused entry.

Let’s break down the ECTN requirements by country and how to apply for each, in clear and practical terms.

1. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

The DRC enforces a strict ECTN policy for all shipments. Every Bill of Lading must be accompanied by an ECTN certificate, which is verified upon arrival.

How to apply:

Applicants need a commercial invoice, freight invoice, Bill of Lading, and cargo details. After uploading these documents online, a draft is issued. Once approved, the validated ECTN is sent via email.

2. Republic of Congo (Brazzaville)

Often confused with DRC, the Republic of Congo also requires an ECTN. It applies to both import and transit cargo.

Process:

Submit your freight documents and cargo information. Once verified, you’ll receive the approved ECTN within a few working days.

3. Guinea

ECTN Guinea requirements apply to every cargo destined for Conakry or transiting through its ports. Authorities use it to pre-screen shipments and reduce congestion.

Application steps:

Upload your Bill of Lading, invoices, and container details. Ensure all documents match—any discrepancy can delay validation. The average processing time is 1-3 business days.

4. Burundi

Though landlocked, Burundi uses regional ports for its imports and still mandates the use of ECTN Burundi to monitor shipments en route.

How to apply:

Freight forwarders or importers must submit shipping documents and declare final inland delivery points. The certificate is then validated and sent to the origin port agent for reference.