Togo has introduced an Environmental Compensation Fee (Droit à Compensation Environnementale – DCE) under an Interministerial Order. The measure forms part of the country’s environmental policy and applies to maritime imports, exports, transit cargo and transshipment operations connected with Togo.
How is the fee calculated?
The DCE is based on the carbon footprint of the relevant voyage. For imports, transit cargo and transshipment, the reference route runs from the country of commercial origin to Togo. For exports, it runs from Togo to the country of commercial destination. The calculation may take account of the voyage distance, vessel type and, where available, actual fuel consumption.
Fifty per cent of the calculated carbon footprint is attributed to Togo and used as the taxable base. For transshipment operations and tramp vessels, a further 50% reduction may apply, reducing the effective taxable base to 25% of the voyage’s total carbon footprint. The published tariff is EUR 15 per tonne of CO₂ equivalent, plus any applicable taxes.
Payment, certification and exemptions
Africa Blue Economy and Traffic Management (ABETM) is responsible for assessing and collecting the DCE. Following payment, a digital receipt and DCE Certificate are issued. The certificate is reported to be required for vessels operating within Togolese territory and for completing the relevant maritime formalities.
Certain exemptions may be available. An operator seeking an exemption must apply to ABETM and obtain an exemption certificate. As the availability of an exemption will depend on the operation concerned, owners and operators should verify the position with their local agent before arrival.
Operational impact
Non-compliance may lead to financial or administrative sanctions, including refusal of berthing or vessel operations, withdrawal of relevant authorizations and monetary penalties. Delays in arranging payment or obtaining the certificate may therefore disrupt port calls and cargo operations.
Vessel operators trading to or from Togo should establish at an early stage whether the DCE applies, confirm the calculation and payment procedure, consider whether an exemption is available and ensure that the required certificate is obtained before the relevant port formalities are completed. Charterparty and freight arrangements should also be reviewed to determine which party is responsible for the charge and the associated documentation.
Members are advised to liaise closely with their local agent in Togo, as implementation and documentary requirements may develop in practice. For questions or assistance, please contact the NNPC Claims Team at claims@nnpc-marine.com.
