The transformation of Cameroon's tax system is not just limited to the evaluation and collection of personal, commercial and sales tax, with the hard work of the republic's Customs agency also generating substantial revenues for the government.

Thanks to a series of bold reforms and a judicious collaboration with its various partners, the performances achieved over the past three years by Cameroonian Customs have exceeded all initial expectations and revenue targets.

In 2004, Customs revenues totaled only CFA 324 billion, but by 2010 that figure had risen to CFA 503.5 billion. Agency chiefs say this outstanding performance is due to a number of measures that have been undertaken by Customs agents.

These include the introduction of a computerized system that improved procedures and reduced delays, reinforcement of Customs tools and financial means and the implementation of policy performance indicators. The improvement of the revenues collection system at land borders and hinterland offices and the simplification and facilitation of Customs clearing procedures are other important factors that have boosted the authority's performance, efficiencies and presence.

While Cameroon's tourism industry has yet to fulfil its rich potential, the country is a member of the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) and attracts substantial foreign finance and funding from CEMAC members. These include the Central African Republic, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. Given China's importance to Cameroon, many Chinese businessmen and government officials live and work in the republic and the two countries have enjoyed more than 40 years of positive diplomatic, commercial, cultural and trade relations.

China is funding and building major new infrastructure and other construction projects that include hospitals, schools, highways, government offices, sports stadia and power plants. "Throughout the past 40 years, the friendly relations and cooperation between China and Cameroon have continued to grow in all areas - economic, cultural, social," said Xue Jinwei, former Chinese ambassador to Cameroon.

(China Daily 09/25/2012 page18)