Government suspends registrations amid fraud concerns
The Cameroon ship registry is facing intense international scrutiny after the government announced the suspension of new registrations for vessels operating outside national waters. In a February 6 communiqué, the Ministry of Transport confirmed the decision, citing several cases of fraudulent registrations carried out through unauthorized applications. Authorities blamed cyber fraud and stated that reforms are underway to strengthen the legal framework governing the maritime register.
The move follows diplomatic pressure from Brussels and growing concerns over shadow fleet vessels linked to the Russian oil trade. Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute convened an inter-ministerial meeting to address the issue and examine the rapid deregistration of certain ships.
Shadow fleet links raise reputational risks
Since 2023, Cameroon has been accused of enabling sanction-busting activities through its maritime flag. According to official data, more than 500 vessels sail under the flag, with over 200 registered in Douala, Kribi and Limbe. Several tankers have reportedly supported Russian crude exports, while others were seized for illegal fishing or drug trafficking.
Ukraine sanctioned three Cameroonian-flagged vessels in December 2025, adding diplomatic weight to the case. With the European Union and the United States tightening oversight of loosely regulated registries, Yaounde now faces mounting reputational and compliance risks if reforms are not effectively implemented.
For further analysis on shadow fleet dynamics and maritime sanctions, see our latest investigation:
Stay informed with our latest coverage of global maritime and naval security developments:
