Burundi ECTN

We’d like to introduce you to the concept of ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note), a crucial requirement for customs clearance and detailed tracking in West African countries. The ECTN certificate is mandatory for shipments destined for these regions, ensuring efficient and secure cargo monitoring.

Why is the ECTN Certificate Required in Burundi?

Burundi, although not located in West Africa, has adopted the ECTN system for customs clearance, aligning with practices common in some West African countries to streamline and secure its importation processes.

Regulation of the Burundi CTN Certificate

The Burundi Customs Authority implemented the CTN system in May 2014, making it mandatory for all shipments. Failure to comply with this requirement results in significant penalties, ranging from $5,000 to $60,000.

Required Documents for the Cargo Tracking Note in Burundi

To ensure a smooth CTN process, the following four documents are essential:

1. Copy of the Bill of Lading document (A draft is acceptable but mandatory)
2. Commercial Invoice (Mandatory)
3. Packing List (Compulsory)
4. Customs Declaration Document (Obligatory)

Burundi’s Economic Overview

• Currency: Burundian Franc (BIF)
• Trade Organizations: African Union (AU), World Trade Organization (WTO)
• Gross Domestic Product (GDP): $3.152 billion (2010)
• GDP Growth: 2.5% (2019)
• Labor Force: 4.08 million, with 89% in agriculture, 4.1% in services, and 5.3% in industry.
• Key Industries: Include blankets, shoes, soap, and food processing.
• Agriculture: Main crops are coffee, cotton, tea, corn, sorghum, sweet potatoes, bananas, manioc; livestock includes beef, milk, and hides.

Exports

• Main Export Goods: Coffee, tea, sugar, cotton, hides.
• Export Partners: Germany, Pakistan, Kenya, China, Sweden, Belgium, Canada, Rwanda, United States.

Imports

• Main Import Goods: Capital goods, petroleum products, foodstuffs.
• Import Partners: Saudi Arabia, China, Uganda, Belgium, Kenya, Zambia, India, UAE.
• Public Finances: $320.8 million.

For more detailed information, visit our section on Cargo Tracking Note.