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Benin Trade Compliance

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Complete guide to Benin import requirements, BESC / ECTN certificates, and customs procedures for 2025. BESC / ECTN certificate mandatory for all sea freight.

MEDIUM RISK📋 BESC / ECTN REQUIRED

Quick Reference

Country Code: BJ
Risk Level: medium
Certificate: BESC / ECTN
Trade Agreements: AfCFTA, ECOWAS, WAEMU
Digital Platform: Benin Trade Portal
Cargo Tracking Note (BESC / ECTN)

Mandatory Status

Yes

Primary Purpose

Tracking cargo movements; combating smuggling

Responsible Authority

Benin Customs

Required Documents

Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Freight Invoice (if applicable), Export Declaration, Packing List

Penalty for Non-Compliance

Prohibited cargo entry; clearing process severely delayed

Special Requirements

Certificate number is not required on the Bill of Lading. Required for in-transit shipments

Required Trade Documents
BESCMANDATORY

Bordereau Électronique de Suivi des Cargaisons

Mandatory electronic cargo tracking certificate for sea shipments to Benin

Benin Port Authority
24-48 hours
Based on freight value
Recent Updates & Changes

BESC certificate mandatory for all sea freight to Cotonou port

Digital trade facilitation initiatives launched

Enhanced customs procedures for West African trade corridor

Key Requirements
1
Bordereau Électronique de Suivi des Cargaisons (BESC) for sea freight
2
Import license from Ministry of Commerce
3
Port Authority clearance for Cotonou port
4
Product standards compliance verification
5
Customs declaration through national system
Active Regulations
BESC RequiredImport LicensePort Authority ClearanceStandards Compliance
Trade Facilitation
Single Window SystemAvailable
Customs ModernizationImplemented
Digital Platform:

Benin Trade Portal

Trade Agreements:
AfCFTAECOWASWAEMU

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