Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping Cargo From China to Guinea-Bissau 2026

Ocean Freight (FCL / LCL)

Sea freight is the most cost-effective mode for shipping from China to Guinea-Bissau. The primary gateway is Bissau Port, the country's largest port. No direct container service is available — all cargo must be transshipped via Dakar (Senegal) or other West African hubs.

• FCL (Full Container Load): Best for cargo >15 CBM. Lower cost per unit, higher security.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): Best for cargo 2‑15 CBM. Pay only for the space you use.
• Transit time: 34‑40 days (Tianjin); 53‑70 days (Southern ports).

Air Cargo to Bissau

Air freight is suitable for high-value electronics, samples, urgent parts, or small-batch shipments. Flights arrive at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport, located approximately 7 km from Bissau Port.

• Transit time: 5‑10 business days
• Best for: Urgent spare parts, medical supplies, electronics
• Note: Air freight is more expensive than sea freight but offers significant time advantages.

International Express Courier

For small parcels, documents, and samples, express courier offers true door‑to‑door delivery to any address in Guinea-Bissau.

• Carriers: DHL Express, FedEx Priority, UPS Worldwide, EMS
• Transit time: 5‑10 days door‑to‑door, with full online tracking
• Best for: Documents, samples, e‑commerce parcels, personal effects

Bissau Port — Guinea-Bissau's Largest Port

Bissau Port is Guinea-Bissau's largest port, serving as the country's primary maritime gateway. It is a key hub for imports of machinery, food products, and manufactured goods, as well as exports of cashew nuts and other agricultural products.

• Type: Lighterage port (vessels anchor offshore and lighter cargo to shore)
• Location: Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
• Climate: Tropical rainforest climate; rainy season May–November
• Tide: Semidiurnal, average range 5.5 m
• Airport proximity: 7 km from Osvaldo Vieira International Airport

Trade & Regulatory Updates

• China zero-tariff policy: Guinea-Bissau has benefited from China's zero-tariff treatment since December 2024, and since May 2026, all 53 African countries with diplomatic relations (including Guinea-Bissau) enjoy 100% zero-tariff on all tariff lines.
• ECTN/CEE mandatory: All sea freight shipments require an ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) certificate, which must be obtained before loading.
• Key imports: Machinery, food products, manufactured goods, vehicles.

FCL & LCL Pricing

• 20GP: $2,900 – $6,800
• 40GP / 40HQ: $4,400 – $7,600
• LCL (per CBM): Please contact for specific rates
• Rates vary by port of origin, shipping line, and seasonal demand. Transshipment via Dakar adds cost.

Air Freight & Express Pricing

• Air Freight (≥45 kg): Approximately $6 – $12 per kg
• Express Courier: $12 – $18 per kg
• Note: Air freight and express rates are calculated based on volumetric weight.

Import Duties & Taxes

Guinea-Bissau applies a tariff structure with duties calculated on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, Freight).

• Import Duty (DFI): 10% (most goods); 20‑30% (vehicles and specific goods)
• VAT: 18%
• EcoTax: Additional environmental tax may apply
• De Minimis Threshold: XOF 5,000 (approx. USD 9)
• Processing Time: Typically 5‑15 days for customs clearance

Required Documents & ECTN

Customs clearance is managed by the Guinea-Bissau Customs Administration. The ECTN/CEE certificate is mandatory for all sea freight shipments.

• ECTN/CEE Certificate: Mandatory. Must be obtained before loading in the origin port. Processing takes 5‑7 days (standard) or 1‑2 days (express).
• Commercial Invoice — Detailed list of goods and their value (must include HS codes)
• Bill of Lading — Official shipping receipt (must show ECTN number)
• Packing List — Inventory of each container's contents
• Certificate of Origin — For preferential duty rates
• VGM Instructions — Verified Gross Mass

Transport from Port to Destination

Guinea-Bissau's transport network is limited. The road network connects Bissau to major inland cities. Bissau Port is located approximately 7 km from Osvaldo Vieira International Airport, facilitating air-sea coordination.

• Key destinations: Bissau, Bafatá, Gabú
• Transport modes: Truck (primary)
• Regional connections: Weekly flights to Senegal, Cape Verde, and Guinea

Guinea-Bissau's Position

Guinea-Bissau is a member of the ECOWAS trade bloc. The country is one of the world's largest cashew nut exporters, with China being a key market. Chinese companies have been active in infrastructure projects including roads, schools, and bridges.

• ECOWAS membership: Common external tariff applies
• Key exports: Cashew nuts, fish, timber
• Key imports: Machinery, food products, manufactured goods, vehicles