CAMEROON
The Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) is a document which is now mandatory for all shipments of cargo departing from the port of Douala, Cameroon. The ECTN replaces the paper-based Bill of Lading and is a requirement of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The ECTN is an initiative of the Cameroonian port authorities and the IMO to improve security and efficiency in the shipping industry. The ECTN allows for real-time tracking of cargo shipments and provides a tamper-proof record of the shipment. The ECTN is also intended to streamline the customs clearance process and reduce the risk of fraudulent shipments.
The ECTN system was piloted in the port of Douala in 2016 and is now mandatory for all cargo departing from Cameroon. All shipping lines operating in the port of Douala are required to participate in the ECTN system.
The ECTN is a positive step forward for the shipping industry in Cameroon. The real-time tracking of shipments will improve security and efficiency, and the tamper-proof record will help to reduce the risk of fraud.