Tchad Cameroun and rca strengthen trade corridor talks in N’Djamena

N’Djamena recently hosted the fifth tripartite forum bringing together Chad, Cameroon, and the Central African Republic to address regional transit and trade challenges. This high-level meeting, held from May 11–12, 2026, underscores the shared commitment of the three nations to boosting cross-border commerce and streamlining customs procedures.

key officials gather for transit optimization discussions

The forum opened with a keynote address by Fatimé Goukouni Weddeye, Chad’s Minister of Transport, Civil Aviation, and National Meteorology. Joining her were senior customs officials, including General Ousman Brahim Djouma, Director General of Chad’s Customs and Indirect Taxes, alongside port authorities and business leaders from all three countries.

addressing bottlenecks in the transcameroun corridor

The primary focus of the discussions revolved around persistent obstacles hindering the smooth flow of goods along the Transcameroun Corridor. Participants analyzed systemic inefficiencies, including:

• cumbersome customs clearance procedures that delay shipments across borders;
• fragmented regulatory frameworks complicating trade logistics;
• limited infrastructure at key transit points, raising operational costs;
• coordination gaps among customs and port authorities in the three countries.

The delegates emphasized the need for unified policies and enhanced collaboration to accelerate trade facilitation and reduce transit times.

roadmap for trade facilitation and economic integration

During the forum, participants outlined strategic steps to revitalize the corridor, including:

• streamlining customs documentation and border clearance processes;
• harmonizing tariff structures and trade regulations under regional agreements;
• investing in transport infrastructure, such as road upgrades and digital tracking systems;
• strengthening joint customs operations at border crossings;
• promoting private sector engagement to support sustainable trade growth.

The forum concluded with a call for ongoing dialogue and concrete action plans to ensure long-term benefits for all stakeholders involved in the Transcameroun Corridor.