Unfortunately, the generous tax and customs advantages enjoyed by companies which came within any of the privileged regimes in Code have been abolished. The Investment Code also provides for a free trade zone reserved mainly for export companies. Furthermore, Cameroon's laws do not discriminate between nationals and foreign investors. In fact, no requirements exist for local participation in businesses. Investors wishing to benefit from the advantages offered in the Investment Code are required to send their applications for approval to the Investment Code Management Service.
Plans are on the create a special office to receive and deal with such applications.
Exchange controls otherwise exist on monetary transactions with other states. The transfer of foreign currency in and out of Cameroon is subject to approval by the Ministry of Finance. However, foreign investors who pay regular taxes in Cameroon should not encounter difficulties in remitting funds abroad. These authorisations are routinely granted. Any company wishing to employ foreign workers must in principle show that there is no qualified Cameroonian available to fill the vacancy on acceptable terms.