Types of Mining Licenses in Cameroon (2025 Guide): From Exploration to Exploitation

Ministry of Mines, Industry and Technological Development (MINMIDT)
Republic of Cameroon – Updated July 13, 2025

Cameroon is emerging as one of Central Africa’s most strategic destinations for responsible mineral exploration, gold trading, and industrial mining investments. Whether you are a local operator, an international investor, or a licensed mineral buyer, understanding the official mining licenses and export permits is essential to legal compliance.

This comprehensive 2025 guide from MINMIDT explains:

• The three types of mining licenses in Cameroon
• How to apply legally
• Gold & diamond export requirements
• The CEMAC Buyers Permit
• Links to download official forms
• Public FAQs and verification steps
• How to avoid scams and fake documents

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1. Reconnaissance License in Cameroon (First Stage)

A Reconnaissance License allows early-stage mineral investigation to identify potential deposits.

Key Features

• Valid for 1 year, non-renewable
• No drilling or excavation
• Covers large surface areas
• Used for remote sensing, aerial surveys, surface mapping

📌 Learn More:
➡️ https://minmitd.com/2020/09/16/apply-mining-license-cameroon-gold-export-permit/

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2. Exploration License in Cameroon (Detailed Mineral Assessment)

Once initial reconnaissance is successful, investors must obtain an Exploration License to conduct detailed geological testing.

Key Features

• Valid 3 years, renewable twice (maximum 9 years)
• Allows drilling, trenching, sampling, analysis
• Requires a detailed work program and environmental assessment

📌 Learn More:
➡️ https://minmitd.com/2021/07/12/cameroon-strategic-mineral-investment-guide/

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3. Exploitation License in Cameroon (Mining Production Permit)

This is the highest mining authorization in Cameroon, enabling full commercial extraction.

Key Features

• Valid for up to 25 years, renewable
• Requires proven reserves & a feasibility study
• Obligations:
  • Mining taxes
  • Environmental compliance
  • Royalties
  • Reporting obligations
• Includes authorization for mineral export under CEMAC rules

📌 Learn More:
➡️ https://minmitd.com/2025/07/12/cameroon-mining-sector-2025-projects-permits-guide/

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Legal Compliance, Mining Taxes & Insurance

To operate legally in Cameroon, every company must comply with national and CEMAC requirements:

🔗 Mining Insurance: https://minmitd.com/insurance/
🔗 Mining Taxes & Fiscal Obligations: https://minmitd.com/taxes/
🔗 Duty-Free Equipment Waivers: https://minmitd.com/waivers/
🔗 CAPAM Programs: https://minmitd.com/capam-2/
🔗 PRECASEM Resources: https://minmitd.com/precasem-2/

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Gold & Diamond Export in Cameroon (2025 Regulations)

Only verified, licensed exporters approved by MINMIDT can export minerals across Cameroon and the CEMAC region.

Apply for Export Permits

• Gold Export Permit:
  https://minmitd.com/2019/07/11/gold-export-permit-cameroon-2025/
• Verify Legitimate Gold/Diamond Sellers:
  https://minmitd.com/2019/01/01/verify-legitimate-gold-diamond-seller-cameroon/
• Avoid Gold Scams in Cameroon:
  https://minmitd.com/2021/02/12/avoid-gold-scams-cameroon/

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The CEMAC Buyers Permit (Mandatory for Foreign Buyers)

To purchase and export gold, diamonds, or any mineral from Cameroon, foreign buyers must obtain the CEMAC Buyers Permit.

Benefits

✔ Legal right to buy minerals
✔ Authorization to export across CEMAC
✔ Tax compliance & transparency
✔ Protection against scams
✔ Verification of spot shipments

Official Application Links

📌 Apply for CEMAC Buyers Permit (Cameroon):
https://minmitd.com/cemac-permit/

📌 Download CEMAC Permit Application Form:
https://cemacbuyerspermit.com/2020/08/14/cemac-permit-application-form-download/

📌 CEMAC Buyers Permit Fees (2025):
https://minmitd.com/2025/07/12/cemac-buyers-permit-fees-2025/

📌 Verification Portal:
https://cemacbuyerspermit.com/permit-verification/

📌 Spot Shipment Authorization Requirements:
https://cemacbuyerspermit.com/2022/07/28/authorization-of-spot-shipment-costs-documents/

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How to Apply for a Mining License in Cameroon (Step-by-Step)

1. Conduct Geological Survey

Hire a certified geologist or submit reconnaissance data.

2. Choose License Type

• Reconnaissance
• Exploration
• Exploitation

3. Prepare Supporting Documents

Includes feasibility studies, maps, work programs, environmental reports.

4. Submit Application to MINMIDT

All applications are submitted officially to the Ministry.

5. Inspection & Validation

MINMIDT conducts technical, environmental & financial reviews.

6. Obtain Your Permit

Successful applicants receive their mining licenses.

7. For Exporters: Apply for a CEMAC Buyers Permit

➡ https://minmitd.com/cemac-permit/

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Downloadable Forms & Useful Links

MINMIDT Official Pages

• Contact & About MINMIDT:
  https://minmitd.com/about-us/
  https://minmitd.com/2022/11/05/contact-ministry-of-mines-cameroon-mining-permits-cemac-buyers-permit/
• Apply for Mining License:
  https://minmitd.com/2020/09/16/apply-mining-license-cameroon-gold-export-permit/
• Export License:
  https://minmitd.com/2025/07/13/gold-diamond-export-license-cameroon/

CEMAC Permit Links

• Requirements: https://cemacbuyerspermit.com/2023/12/12/cemac-buyers-permit-requirements/
• Application: https://cemacbuyerspermit.com/application/
• Avoid Permit Scams: https://cemacbuyerspermit.com/2021/11/12/avoid-cemac-permit-scams-or-mistake/
• Fees and Regulations: https://cemacbuyerspermit.com/2024/12/12/cemac-buyers-permit-fees-and-regulations/

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can foreigners own mining rights in Cameroon?

Yes. Foreign companies can own 100% mining rights, subject to MINMIDT compliance and due diligence.

Q2: Is the CEMAC Buyers Permit mandatory for foreign gold buyers?

Absolutely. No gold or mineral can leave Cameroon legally without this permit.
Apply here: https://minmitd.com/cemac-permit/

Q3: How do I verify if a gold seller is legitimate?

Use the official MINMIDT verification guide:
https://minmitd.com/2019/01/01/verify-legitimate-gold-diamond-seller-cameroon/

Q4: What minerals are most exported from Cameroon?

• Gold
• Diamonds
• Cobalt & Nickel
• Bauxite
• Iron ore
• Limestone
• Quartz

Full mineral export list:
https://minmitd.com/2016/09/06/top-minerals-exported-by-cameroon-how-to-export-legally/

Q5: Are there fake mining permits in circulation?

Yes. You must verify all documentation.
Report or verify here:
https://minmitd.com/2025/03/12/fake-mining-permits-cameroon-how-to-report/

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Invest Smart, Export Legally

Cameroon remains open and committed to responsible mining investments. The Government, through MINMIDT, ensures that all companies and buyers operate transparently, legally, and securely.

Whether you are seeking a mining license, export permit, or CEMAC authorization—always use official channels.

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Call to Action (Government Official Contact)

Ministry of Mines, Industry and Technological Development (MINMIDT)
Republic of Cameroon

📩 Email: [email protected]
🌍 Website: https://minmitd.com/
📞 Tel: +237 221 521 660

👉 Apply for your Mining License or CEMAC Buyers Permit today:
🔗 https://minmitd.com/cemac-permit/