Service overview
Set up an import-export company in Togo with coordination of company registration, importer/exporter card, XOF banking and transaction-specific Customs/SEGUCE formalities.
Start with a registered Togolese company
The importer/exporter process comes after company formalisation. TCG coordinates the corporate setup, registered-address requirements and the post-incorporation workplan before trade registrations are activated.
- Confirm the legal structure and ownership
- Define the products, origin/destination markets and expected trade flows
- Identify any product-specific permits before the first shipment
Obtain the importer/exporter card
The Togo public-service portal states that the importer/exporter card is available to operators registered with the CFE, is valid for 12 months and has an indicated processing time of 72 working hours after a compliant filing. The current public page lists the procedure cost as variable.
- Company creation card / CFE evidence
- Valid promoter identification
- Valid visa or residence/consular documentation for foreign applicants as applicable
- Renewal or modification file when relevant
Prepare each import or export transaction
Registration does not replace transaction execution. Each shipment can involve Customs, SEGUCE, a broker, port documentation, origin certificates, phytosanitary or quality controls and product-specific authorisations.
- Commercial invoice and packing list
- Transport and insurance documents
- Customs and SEGUCE coordination
- Product-specific certificates or permits
Banking for an import-export company
TCG’s standard banking setup is a corporate account in XOF. Foreign-currency accounts, including USD accounts, are not part of the standard package because they may require additional regulatory authorisation and can take significantly longer in practice.
- Compare suitable corporate banks
- Prepare KYC and signatory documents
- Coordinate the XOF account opening
- Assess trade-finance or foreign-currency needs separately
TCG execution model
TCG can coordinate the initial setup and then intervene on individual import/export operations when requested. Official, Customs, broker, port, inspection and other third-party charges remain separate from TCG professional fees.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreign shareholder operate an import-export company in Togo?+
A foreign-owned company can be structured for trading activities, but the incorporation documents, foreign-shareholder requirements and product-specific licences must be confirmed for the exact project.
Is the importer/exporter card permanent?+
No. The current public-service procedure states that the card is valid for 12 months, so renewal planning should be included in the compliance calendar.
Does the importer/exporter card cover every product?+
No. Some products require additional permits, inspections, phytosanitary documents, quality controls or sector approvals. TCG maps these requirements before each operation.
Can TCG coordinate individual shipments after setup?+
Yes. Import/export, Customs and SEGUCE support can be engaged on a transaction-by-transaction basis, depending on the product and shipment route.
Official references and project verification
TCG verifies current official requirements before execution. These public references are useful starting points.