This article provides a data-driven overview of the average costs associated with creating and maintaining a standard private limited company (SARL) in Cameroon for 2025. Both initial incorporation and annual maintenance fees are discussed, offering clarity for international professionals considering company formation in this jurisdiction.
Typical Company Formation Costs in Cameroon (2025)
The standard entity for most business activities in Cameroon is the SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée). The table below summarizes official, itemized expenses for company creation, using the XAF currency with USD estimates for reference (using the approximate rate of 1 USD = 600 XAF):
| Cost Item | Amount (XAF) | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum capital requirement | 100,000 XAF | $167 |
| Registration fees (CFCE) | 41,000 XAF | $68 |
| Notary fees (for drafting articles of association) | 20,000 XAF | $33 |
| Stamp duties & administrative fees | 19,000 XAF | $32 |
| Total (average) | 180,000 XAF | $300 |
The total cost of approximately 180,000 XAF ($300) covers all statutory requirements for a standard company setup, provided there are no unusual complexities or additional services needed.
Ongoing Company Maintenance Costs
Annual maintenance requirements for a SARL in Cameroon typically involve licensing, accounting, and filing fees. These are summarized below, again with USD conversions (1 USD = 600 XAF) for comparative purposes:
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| Maintenance Item | Annual Amount (XAF) | Annual Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual business license (patente) | 50,000 XAF | $83 |
| Mandatory accounting services | 50,000 XAF | $83 |
| Annual tax declaration filing fees* | 50,000 XAF | $83 |
| Estimated Annual Total | 150,000 XAF | $250 |
*Tax declaration fees apply when services of a licensed accountant or legal professional are retained.
The actual annual cost can vary between 50,000 and 150,000 XAF ($83–$250) depending on the scope of services engaged and company activity.
Key Insights from Official Sources
- Statutory company formation costs in Cameroon are relatively moderate by regional standards.
- The country enforces a clear minimum capital policy (100,000 XAF / ~$167 at current rates), so founders must allocate this upfront.
- CFCE registration fees and notary costs are both mandatory, in line with OHADA (Organisation pour l’Harmonisation en Afrique du Droit des Affaires) requirements for the region.
- Annual compliance, including business license renewal and basic accounting, typically totals under 150,000 XAF ($250), but can be lower for companies with minimal activity or in their first year.
Pro Tips for Company Formation and Management in Cameroon
- Prioritize full compliance: Ensure you budget not only for initial registration but also for annual business license fees and professional accounting—Cameroonian authorities frequently review compliance for even small companies.
- Use the CFCE as your primary resource: The Centre de Formalités de Création d’Entreprises (CFCE) offers comprehensive official guidance and streamlines many administrative processes for both residents and non-residents.
- Consider hiring local professionals: Engaging a licensed accountant or legal expert can help with paperwork accuracy and annual tax filings, often saving more than their fee in reduced delays or administrative issues.
- Plan for the minimum capital: Set aside the entire minimum capital (100,000 XAF) in advance, since authorities may refuse registration until it appears in a local bank account or is otherwise demonstrably available.
Links & Official Resources
In summary, the statutory costs for establishing and sustaining a standard SARL in Cameroon remain stable and comparatively transparent as of 2025. The main financial considerations include the minimum capital, administrative and notary fees at the time of setup, and fairly predictable annual compliance expenses. Establishing a relationship with the CFCE and experienced local advisors can help streamline the process further, ensuring smooth operations in the Cameroonian business environment.