The Autonomous Port of Douala (PAD) is at the center of a power struggle between the Director General of Customs and the Ministry of Finance (MINFI) regarding the management of the merchandise scanning contract. This situation highlights deep institutional tensions within the Cameroonian administration, with potential implications for the country's trade and economy. The disagreement concerns the legality of a 2015 contract awarded to the Swiss company SGS for the inspection and certification of containers, a significant source of public revenue.
In 2025, the PAD, led by Cyrus Ngo'o, authorized the entry of a new operator, Transatlantic D SA, challenging the existing agreement with SGS. The MINFI, under the direction of Minister Louis Paul Motaze, immediately rejected this decision, insisting that the contract with SGS remained in effect until 2032 and that only the State could terminate it. This opposition has led to an open standoff between the two entities, creating confusion and uncertainty detrimental to port users. The situation is further complicated by conflicting instructions emanating from different branches of the executive.
A confidential document dated January 26, attributed to the chief of staff of President Paul Biya, reportedly suggests a preference for ending the partnership with SGS. However, Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute reportedly aligned himself with the position of the Minister of Finance at a meeting on January 29, arguing for the maintenance of the contract with the Swiss company. This divergence of views within the government itself underscores the power struggle between different factions and raises questions about the transparency of decision-making procedures.
The current crisis is not limited to a simple technical disagreement over a contract. It reveals broader power issues and institutional rivalries at the highest levels of the State. The lack of clear communication from the presidency has exacerbated the situation, allowing each side to defend its interests, thus fueling confusion and instability. This internal struggle has repercussions on administrative governance and the State's ability to guarantee legal stability in a key economic sector.
Since January 1, 2026, Transatlantic D SA has been carrying out scanning operations at the port, replacing SGS. However, the Ministry of Finance continues to demand compliance with the contract with SGS, creating an administrative and financial imbroglio. Port users are thus faced with contradictory injunctions regarding payments and procedures to follow, which disrupts commercial operations and risks leading to additional costs. The Director General of PAD has also reminded users that only payments made to Transatlantic D SA are valid for scanning fees.
Experts believe that this crisis could have significant consequences on the competitiveness of the port of Douala, a hub for trade in Central Africa. Legal uncertainty and the complexity of procedures risk deterring investors and trading partners. In addition, this case highlights the persistent challenges in terms of transparency and good governance in Cameroon, crucial issues to ensure sustainable economic development. The current situation could also have political implications, with a possible cabinet reshuffle on the horizon.
In conclusion, the battle over the scanning contract at the port of Douala illustrates the power struggles and administrative dysfunctions that hinder Cameroon's economic development. A rapid and transparent resolution of this conflict is essential to restore the confidence of economic actors and guarantee the competitiveness of the port, an essential link in regional trade. The intervention of the presidency is expected to clarify the situation and restore coherence in government directives.
