Importing FMCG products into Senegal: practical guide
Dakar sits at an advanced position on the Atlantic, which makes it one of the fastest destinations from Europe. This guide helps Senegalese importers prepare the purchase of a container of fast-moving consumer goods from Whitworth, from the order in Brussels to delivery at the Port Autonome de Dakar.
Before you order
Before ordering, identify the references that sell best in your outlets and the quantities per month. Send this list to Whitworth: we return a proforma invoice with prices in euros, the number of cartons and pallets, the planned fill rate and the Incoterm. Pass it on to your forwarder in Dakar so they can check any health requirements. During periods of high demand, such as Ramadan or Tabaski, order earlier to secure a sailing.
Required documents
Senegalese formalities go through an electronic clearance system: a consistent file saves days.
Commercial invoice
Detailed by reference, in euros, with the origin of the products.
Packing list
Gross and net weight, number of packages, pallet identification.
Bill of lading (B/L)
Released according to the agreed payment terms, it allows collection in Dakar.
Certificate of origin
To prove the European origin of the goods to customs.
Health certificates
Depending on the food products concerned, to be prepared before departure from Antwerp.
Incoterms offered
You can buy FOB Antwerp and entrust freight to your own forwarder, or CIF Dakar with ocean freight and insurance included in our price. For a first container, CIF gives a complete view of the cost delivered to the port.
Sea transit from Antwerp
Thanks to its position, Dakar is often served in two to three weeks from Antwerp, sometimes less on direct services. Total lead time also depends on consolidating the products in Antwerp and on terminal handling on arrival.
Customs clearance and delivery
Once the vessel is alongside in Dakar, your forwarder enters the declaration in the Senegalese customs electronic system. The container is then released, with or without inspection depending on the checks. After payment of duties, it reaches your warehouses in the Dakar region or leaves for Thiès, Touba or Saint-Louis. For a flow to Mali, the container is placed under a transit regime and follows the road or rail corridor, under the responsibility of your forwarder.
Tariff zone and duties
Senegal is a member of WAEMU and ECOWAS. European products fall under the ECOWAS common external tariff, with community and national levies on top. Dakar also serves as a transit port for Mali, which may interest a regional distributor. Rates are to be confirmed with your freight forwarder or customs (Direction générale des douanes).
Currency and payment methods
The currency is the CFA franc (XOF), pegged to the euro at a fixed parity, which simplifies budgeting for a purchase invoiced in euros. Payments are made by bank transfer or by letter of credit issued by a Senegalese bank.
Points to watch
Labelling
French wording, a clear best-before date and importer details.
Heat
Some temperature-sensitive products do not tolerate long storage at the port.
Fresh products
Reefer container required and fast transport to your warehouses.
Transit to Mali
To be flagged at the time of order, as the documents are then adapted.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Dakar faster?
The port is closer to Europe than those in the Gulf of Guinea, hence shorter crossings.
Can I order for Mali via Dakar?
Yes, provided you arrange the overland transit with your forwarder.
Are invoices in CFA francs?
No, in euros, but the fixed parity avoids exchange risk.
Which customs duties apply?
They vary by product: to be confirmed with your freight forwarder or customs.
Can dry and fresh goods be mixed?
Yes, by organising the order in suitable containers or as a mixed shipment where possible.
Send your product list for Dakar: we prepare the proforma invoice and the loading plan.