Fees for accessing genetic resources for research

What this is

This non-tax revenue formalizes the legal, regulatory, and institutional framework governing the sampling and collection of biological material (plant, animal, or microbial specimens) within the national territory for scientific research or commercial exploitation. In compliance with Cameroon's international commitments, this mechanism guarantees the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits (ABS) arising from the utilization of these genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge. The issuance of research or exploitation permits is strictly subject to obtaining the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) of the provider local or indigenous communities, as well as signing a Mutually Agreed Terms (MAT) agreement. This synallagmatic contract defines the precise scope of the research and establishes the modalities for redistributing economic dividends or transferring technological skills (both monetary and non-monetary benefits).