Across such a varied continent, doing business in Africa is a a wide term but the advice to find a good local partner often holds true.
With South Africa joining the system in 1976, ATA carnet use in Africa is well established. There are now seven other countries on the continent who are ATA carnet members and welcome their use.
In all cases, they accept carnets for professional equipment and items relating to business exhibitions. Commercial samples are accepted in most countries, although depending on their nature, may not be allowable in Algeria.
The acceptance of carnets for postal items is generally okay, as are goods in transit, except for Morocco. The majority of carnet members in Africa are relatively new, so whilst the basis is fine, best to check with our team on unusual plans.
Carnets Use In Practice
Compared to a number of other countries, the majority of members in Africa do not deal with vast quantities of carnets for incoming, temporary exports. Customs staff at small crossings may not be entirely familiar with them.
In some cases, specific entry and exit points are specified, especially for goods in transit, or complex shipments. Again, check with us when we supply your carnet, you can also see information on the web for all African members:
- Algeria – Chamber Of Commerce & Industry
- Ivory Coast – Cote d’Ivoire Chamber Of Commerce
- Madagascar – Malagasy Customs Department
- Mauritius – Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- Morocco – Chamber Of Commerce & Industry Services
- Senegal – Chamber Of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture
- South Africa – South African Lead Chamber (SACCI)
- Tunisia – Chamber Of Commerce & Industry
In principle, all countries will allow replacement carnets if they are lost and in most cases, grant time extensions. Several suggest that you contact us (your carnet supplier) first and applications must be made before the existing carnet expires.
Increasing Opportunity
With a population almost twice the size of Europe and a new continental free trade association (AfCFTA) there are growing opportunities in Africa. China is a long standing partner, although new finance initiatives are being launched from the West.
The UK-Africa summit in 2020 made our intentions evident, with other partners being sought after Brexit. The current level of exports from the UK to Africa is below 3% of our total and improvement is there to be found.
The diversity of cultures and environments also makes the continent a fascinating place to visit. If you are travelling to any of the member countries and need an ATA carnet, please get in touch with our friendly team.