At the beginning of 2026, the Port Authority of Douala has faced administrative instability linked to the implementation of a new cargo scanning system. While the port authority officially entrusted non intrusive scanning operations to Transatlantic D SA starting January 1, 2026, some government agencies are reportedly still following procedures associated with the previous operator. This transition is presented as a protective measure for economic operators. The Douala Port Authority has emphasized that
the only valid payment is the one made to Transatlantic D S.A.,
Underscoring its commitment to prevent double billing of scanning fees for shippers. By centralizing payments through a single operator, the reform aims to enhance clarity and transparency in port charges. Beyond financial aspects, the new system also expands the scope of inspection. The previous “100% container scanning” policy now applies to all imported vehicles as of January 10, 2026. Consequently, scanning fees have become a critical step in port procedures: containers or vehicles without proper receipts are automatically blocked from completing formalities.
Structural delays on africa’s atlantic coast
Douala Port already experiences longer waiting times compared with several comparable African ports. According to the logistics platform Gocomet, ship waiting times can reach up to nine days, versus six to seven days at ports like Abidjan or Lekki. Extended berth times increase vessel costs, which are ultimately passed on to shippers. On top of that, cargo dwell times remain high : containers can stay on Douala’s port platform for up to 22 days, compared with seven to ten days in more efficient ports elsewhere on the continent. Each extra day generates additional storage, insurance, and handling fees, directly impacting companies’ cash-flow.
Logistics costs already under pressure
The current scanning issues come on top of an already challenging logistics environment in Cameroon. According to the World Bank, logistics costs account for 30-40% of the final price of imported goods one of the highest levels in the region. Rising maritime transport costs, which have increased between 25% and 120% in recent years depending on the port of origin, exacerbate the situation. Any additional administrative uncertainty immediately adds to costs. Industrial companies whether in agro-industry, construction, steel, or manufacturing see their profit margins compressed. Investors also factor these operational frictions into their risk assessments, influencing decisions about new projects or capacity expansions.
Measurable impact on port activity and competitiveness
Despite its strategic role in Cameroon’s economy, Douala Port saw a decline in traffic during the first quarter of 2025, with fewer imports and a reduction in the number of ships docking. The Ministry of Finance reported that while revenue rose by 25.9% in the first quarter, this increase was largely driven by early-year payment of port dues rather than structural growth in traffic. Over one year, revenues from maritime transport increased by 3.2%, but overall traffic fell by 2.9%, reflecting a drop in both import tonnage (-1.3%) and exports (-9%). The number of ships calling at Douala-Bonabéri fell 11%, from 293 in Q4 2024 to 260 in Q1 2025.
This paradox highlights a key point : revenue growth does not necessarily reflect improved efficiency or competitiveness. Persistent logistical and administrative inefficiencies influence the choices of economic operators, potentially favoring alternative ports perceived as more predictable and streamlined. Over the medium term, this raises the risk of gradually weakening Douala’s position on Africa’s Atlantic coast at a time when regional competition is intensifying.
