Exporting Gold or Diamonds from Cameroon: Which License Do You Need?
Author: Ministry of Mines, Industry and Technological Development (MINMITD)
Published: July 13, 2025
Category: Mining & Export Licensing
Exporting precious minerals from Cameroon—whether gold, rough diamonds, or other precious stones—requires strict adherence to national and regional licensing regulations. As the Ministry of Mines, Industry and Technological Development (MINMITD), we aim to provide clarity to exporters, investors, and buyers across the globe about the required permits and processes.
💡 Key Takeaway:
You need different licenses depending on whether you are exporting gold, rough diamonds, or other minerals. Using the wrong permit or skipping steps can result in confiscation, sanctions, or permanent bans.
🔍 What License Do You Need?
✅ 1. Gold Export License (Gold Export Permit)
If you’re planning to export gold from Cameroon, you need:
- A valid Gold Export Permit from the MINMITD.
- A CEMAC Buyer’s Permit if you’re a foreign buyer.
- Proper CAPAM registration and PRECASEM documentation.
🟢 Learn more here:
- Apply for Gold Export Permit – 2025 Guide
- CEMAC Gold Buying Permit – 2025
- Avoid Gold Scams in Cameroon
✅ 2. Rough Diamond Export License
For diamonds, additional compliance is mandatory under the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme. You must:
- Apply for a Rough Diamond Export License via MINMITD.
- Undergo verification under CEMAC and international controls.
- Ensure transparency and traceability from the mine to the market.
🟢 Key Resources:
✅ 3. Other Precious Stones or Industrial Minerals
Minerals like cobalt, tantalite, coltan, bauxite, and quartz require:
- An Exploration or Exploitation Mining License
- A valid Export Authorization
- Payment of relevant taxes and insurance
🟢 Learn about these opportunities:
🌍 Do You Need a CEMAC Buyer’s Permit?
Yes! If you’re a non-Cameroonian buyer, you are required to apply for and possess a CEMAC Buyer’s Permit. This regional license allows you to legally:
- Buy gold or diamonds from approved sellers.
- Export within the CEMAC member states.
- Avoid local and international fraud.
🟢 Must-read guides:
📃 Related Documents You Need
| Document | Issued By | Required For |
|---|---|---|
| CEMAC Buyer’s Permit | CEMAC Secretariat | All exports |
| Export Permit | MINMITD | Gold, Diamonds |
| Insurance Document | Apply Here | Exports |
| Tax Clearance | Learn more | Compliance |
| CAPAM Certificate | Info | Gold traceability |
| PRECASEM Approval | Details | Project legitimacy |
| APROCOM Registration | Apply | Market validation |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I export gold without a permit?
No. It is illegal to export gold from Cameroon without a valid Gold Export License and CEMAC Buyer’s Permit. Read: Apply Gold Export Permit
Q2: How long does it take to get the permit?
It typically takes 7–21 working days depending on your documentation completeness and application type. Check full application process
Q3: How do I avoid fake sellers or permits?
Always verify sellers and licenses via:
🚨 Warning About Fraud
Avoid scams by:
- Avoiding middlemen with no documentation.
- Confirming all exports with MINMITD.
- Using only certified CEMAC permits and partners.
🔒 Read: Avoid Gold Scams in Cameroon
📣 Report Fake Permits
✅ How to Get Started
Step-by-step Guide:
- Identify the mineral you wish to export.
- Apply for the appropriate MINMITD export license.
- Register with CAPAM, PRECASEM, and APROCOM.
- Apply for the CEMAC Buyer’s Permit.
- Verify documentation and pay taxes.
- Ship your minerals through certified export channels.
📞 Call to Action
Are you ready to export legally, invest securely, and partner with Cameroon’s mining authority?
👉 Start here:
🔗 Apply for Export Permit
📨 Contact MINMITD
🛡️ Apply for CEMAC Buyer’s Permit
📢 Final Word
Cameroon is open for business, but we prioritize legal, ethical, and transparent mining and export practices. Exporting gold, diamonds, or minerals from Cameroon is highly profitable only when done legally. Work with us—the official MINMITD—to ensure full compliance and safe investment.
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