Togo Customs Management Regulations and Rules

[Import and Export Management]

Togo implements a trade liberalization policy with relatively few trade barriers. However, the Togolese government stipulates that the import of specific products related to life, health, national security and public morality must apply for a license from the competent authorities. Such as: weapons, explosives and military equipment, medicines, etc.

In addition, Togo prohibits the export of food and the import of cement. Other commodities can enter and leave Togo freely under customs supervision.

In June 2016, in order to restrict the export, import and re-export of PTEROCARPUS ERINACEUS (wood commonly known as ‘fake teak’) boards, the Togolese Council of Ministers decided to temporarily suspend the import, export and re-export of “fake teak” from the entire territory of Togo. In addition, the Council of Ministers also decided not to issue licenses for the import and transportation of “fake teak” boards from neighboring countries and sub-regional countries within 10 years.

In December 2015, the website of the Republic of Togo reported that the “One-Stop Window for Foreign Trade” was officially put into use at the airport. The agency, operated by VERITAS, will effectively improve transparency among trade parties and shorten cargo processing time. In the future, this agency will be fully applied at land, sea and air borders. The establishment of a "one-stop window for foreign trade" will effectively meet the needs of the government and the public and private sectors. Togo first used the system at ports, and then extended it to various land border customs and airports. Airlines can submit cargo manifests to the system before the goods arrive and start handling relevant procedures in advance. All customs declaration and customs clearance procedures can be carried out online.

[Other customs regulations]

(1) Regarding the port storage period of goods. Customs regulations stipulate that after the arrival of imported goods at the port, the free storage period is 3 days, and storage fees (port storage fees) will be levied from the 4th day, with a maximum storage period of 4 months. If the importer fails to pay the fees and pick up the goods within 4 months, the customs will announce an auction of the stranded goods and use the proceeds from the auction to pay customs and port fees.

(2) Regarding exempted and duty-free goods. According to customs regulations, goods donated by foreign governments or groups to the Togolese government can enjoy tax exemption, but the government department must issue a certificate of the donated materials and release them after approval by the customs. Any items marked as diplomatic packages or materials purchased by the embassy can enjoy inspection exemption and tax exemption after completing the relevant customs declaration procedures.