Cameroon Investment Income Guide 2026

Overview — Investment Income Taxation

Cameroon taxes investment income through withholding taxes at source for most passive income streams. The withholding tax is generally a final tax for resident individuals, meaning no further tax reporting is required. For companies, withheld tax is creditable against corporate tax. For non-residents, withholding tax rates may be reduced under applicable double tax treaties. The Direction Générale des Impôts administers all withholding tax under the General Tax Code.

Dividends — 13% WHT (Final for Residents)

Dividends paid by Cameroonian-resident companies are subject to withholding tax at 13% for resident shareholders. This is a final tax for resident individuals, meaning the dividend income is not included in the individual's progressive IRPP assessment. For corporate shareholders, the 13% WHT is a creditable advance payment against their CIT liability. For non-residents, the dividend WHT rate is generally 15% (reduced under applicable DTTs). Distributions from collective investment schemes (OPCVM) may be exempt from WHT under certain conditions.

Interest Income — 13% WHT

Interest income is subject to withholding tax at 13%. This applies to interest from:

• Bank deposits — savings accounts, fixed-term deposits
• Treasury bills (BTA) — 13-week, 26-week, and 52-week government securities
• Government bonds (OTA) — medium and long-term bonds
• Corporate bonds — debentures and other debt instruments
• Loans — interest on loans to individuals or entities

The 13% WHT is generally a final tax for resident individuals. For corporate taxpayers, the WHT is creditable against CIT. Interest paid to non-residents is subject to WHT at standard rates, which may be reduced under applicable double tax treaties.

Capital Gains — Property & Shares

Capital gains on property disposals are subject to CGT at 25% as covered in the capital gains guide. Gains from the disposal of shares listed on the Douala Stock Exchange (DSX) are generally exempt from tax for individual investors. Gains from unlisted shares are subject to CGT at 25%. The difference in treatment between listed and unlisted shares aims to encourage investment in the stock market.

FAQs

Do I need to report dividend income on my tax return?

If you are a resident individual, the 13% WHT on dividends is final, so no further reporting is needed. Non-residents and corporate shareholders should report and claim treaty relief where applicable.

Are foreign investment income and capital gains taxable in Cameroon?

Yes, tax residents are taxed on worldwide investment income. Foreign dividends, interest, and capital gains should be declared in the annual tax return. Foreign tax credits may be available under DTTs.

Can I claim a refund if WHT exceeds my tax liability?

Yes, where the WHT deducted exceeds the final tax liability, you can claim a refund from the DGI by filing an annual return.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Cameroonian investment income taxation for the 2026 tax year. Tax laws and rates may change. Always consult with a qualified Cameroonian tax advisor or the Direction Générale des Impôts for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax advice.