Maritime law encompasses the laws, rules, regulations, and international agreements governing activities at sea and on other waterways. Situated strategically, Cameroon provides essential marine services to various African nations, including Chad, the Central African Republic, and the Republic of Congo. This strategic position positively impacts Cameroon’s marine activities, leading to bustling port operations.

Key Ports and Terminals in Cameroon: Cameroon boasts four major ports and five marine terminals, pivotal for regional trade and commerce:
Ports:

1. a. Port of Douala – The largest and busiest port in Cameroon, vital for imports and exports.
2. b. Port of Limbe – Key for oil and gas transportation.
3. c. Port of Kribi – A deep-sea port catering to large vessels.
4. d. Port of Tiko – An essential port for local trade.

Terminals:

1. a. Kome Kribi 1 Marine Terminal – Supports offshore oil production.
2. b. Moudi Marine Terminal – Facilitates cargo operations.
3. c. Kole Oil Terminal – Specialized for oil transportation.
4. d. Ebome Marine Terminal – Critical for liquid bulk shipping.
5. e. Limboh Terminal – A hub for regional maritime activities.

Regulatory Framework: Maritime operations in Cameroon are governed by several key laws, including:

1. a. United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) – Established in 1982 and effective since 1994.
2. b. CEMAC Merchant Shipping Code – Enacted on July 22, 2012, regulating maritime activities across Central African states, including Cameroon.
3. c. Merchant Marine Community Code – Instituted on August 3, 2001.
   Our legal team possesses extensive expertise in maritime law and its applications. We draft various agreements, such as contracts for cargo carriage, charter parties between ship owners and charterers, and storage agreements. Given that disputes are common in maritime operations, we also manage issues like charter party disputes, cargo damage, and contamination, and facilitate ship arrests as necessary for both conservatory and executory measures.