Overview

Gaya hosts a Customs Office, the CNUT, Soniloga and representatives from the Police Sanitaire that are charged with controlling incoming goods. The processes normally run smoothly and can be expected to be completed within two (2) working days. Delays can arise due to problems with internet connection, and the crossing can in period be congested.

A perpetual challenge is the ratio of trucks with Nigerien registration that is enforced by the CNUT and transporters union. The rule is that two thirds (2/3) of trucks for any combined cargo should be registered in Niger. However, there is often not enough Nigerien trucks available at the ports to clear the cargo and Beninese trucks are generally cheaper. Thus the rule is often violated which can lead to problems when crossing.

Daily Capacity

There is a separate lane for private cars. Vehicles that are not carrying cargo will be charged between 30 USD and 60 USD depending on the type of vehicle by Soniloga. North of 100 vehicles crosses the border on a daily basis.

Customs Clearance

The Customs Office requires and invoice and packing list for the cargo. They will also require a BESC/ECTN (Bordereau Electronique de Suivi des Cargaisons / Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) if the goods are coming in through the ports. If the goods originate in the region at Certificate of origin with the value of the goods are required instead of the BESC/ECTN). The CNUT will check the waybills and that the ratio of Nigerien trucks is respected – 2/3 registered in Niger. La Police Sanitaire will check that food items have their phytosanitary certification.

Delays can be expected when the crossing is congested, import of food items peak around April to July. Connection issues are a recurrent problem that will cause delays. Otherwise not respecting the Nigerien truck ratio can block the trucks at the border.

Each truck is charged USD 10 for customs declaration and an additional USD 10 for extra-legal labour. On top of this comes phytosanitary fees of USD 1 per metric ton and an escort fee by destination, in USD:

For more information on customs in NIGER, please see the following link:

1.3 Niger Customs Information

Other Relevant Information

Trucks and containers are not opened and inspected at the crossing. This is performed at the regional Customs Offices where the goods are destined. For this reason the process is relatively fluid and will normally be done within 48 hours maximum.

There is no weighing at Gaya. This control is performed in Dosso.

Goods intended for transit through Niger needs transit authorisation to be let through. Pharmaceutical goods needs special import permit that can be obtained from the Health Ministry. Dangerous goods also requires special import permit.

For more information on government contact details, please see the following link:

4.1 Government Contact List