Chad, a landlocked Central African nation with over 17 million people (2023), has a growing economy driven by oil and agriculture. GDP growth reached 4.3% in 2023, supported by oil exports and a recovering agricultural sector after flooding, though infrastructure and poverty remain challenges—around 44% live below the poverty line .

Despite limited transport networks—no railways and poor road conditions—Chad’s trade depends heavily on import routes through Cameroon’s port of Douala, with goods also coming via Niger, Nigeria, Sudan, and Central African Republic.

Why Chad Matters for Your Business

Chad’s demand includes machinery, vehicles, petroleum products, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and foodstuffs, with imports reaching approximately 41–63% of GDP depending on the source. Main suppliers are China (≈28%), UAE, France, and Turkey .

Key Distribution & Retail Channels

1. Import Hubs
   • N’Djamena, the capital, hosts most importers, wholesale distributors, and informal retail markets.
   • Secondary hubs include Moundou, Sarh, and Abéché—important for reaching regional demand .
2. Cross-border Inflows
   • A significant share of goods enters Chad via neighboring countries—traders source items from Cameroon, Libya, Nigeria, and Sudan, leveraging porous borders .
3. Retail Landscape
   • The market is dominated by informal retailers—street vendors, small kiosks, and roadside shops.
   • Formal retail is limited but includes supermarkets and licensed distributors in N’Djamena and a few secondary cities.
4. Distribution via Agents or Distributors
   • Most international brands enter through local agents or import-export companies acting as wholesalers.
   • Established brands—like CAT heavy equipment, Ford vehicles, and Valvoline lubricants—use this model.
   • Licensing agreements are used by companies such as Coca‑Cola.

How to Enter the Market Successfully

• Partner with experienced distributors who understand import regulations, customs on routes like Douala–N’Djamena, and local consumer demand.
• Focus on N’Djamena for distribution base, then expand to regional towns through local agents or cross-border trading networks.
• Use an agent/licensing model: this is the standard across sectors like vehicles, machinery, FMCG, and petroleum.
• Navigate logistics challenges: poor roads and seasonal access require careful planning and reliable transport partners.

Areas We Can Support You in Chad

• Market statistics & economic profiling
• Export/import advisory
• Investment & incorporation guidance
• Support in manufacturing or assembly
• Trademark registration & IP protection
• Regulatory, fiscal, and operational insights
• Sourcing and vetting distributors, wholesalers, and retailers

Local Support in Africa

SCA‑Partner, based in Nairobi, Kenya, with a network spanning 54 African countries, offers:

• In‑depth market research & entry strategy
• Local partner identification & vetting
• Marketing and sales representation on the ground

Entering or expanding in Chad—or across Africa—you need a trusted, on‑the‑ground partner.

That’s where we come in.

👉 Visit us at: www.scapartner.com