The cost of importing vehicles, particularly used cars, has just gotten pricier in Cameroon. The General Tax Directorate (DGI) has introduced a new tax, the "Import Verification Tax,effective July 1, 2025. This tax adds to the existing 19.25% Value-Added Tax  already applied to the value of imported vehicles. The new tax details :  TVI Amount approximately 30,000 FCFA (29,813 FCFA, including VAT), Purpose to cover inspection and identification control fees, including SGS verification , payment  through the GUCE (Guichet Unique du Commerce Extérieur) platform

The Cameroonian government aims to strengthen control over used car imports, better regulate the vehicle fleet, and optimize tax revenue. With over 96% of the country's vehicle fleet consisting of used cars, this measure may help address concerns about the environmental impact and safety of these vehicles.

In 2021, Cameroon imported 60,000 used cars worth 214 billion FCFA, with most vehicles being over 15 years old. The government has previously attempted to restrict the importation of older vehicles, citing environmental and safety concern.  In 2017, the government encouraged the importation of vehicles under 10 years old by offering a 30% tax abatement and exemptions from certain duties.

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