Group 1 - The Central African Economic Community (CEEAC) approved a new external tariff (TEC) effective January 1, 2026, in Cameroon, marking a milestone in regional integration [2] - The new tariff rates range from 0% to 40% based on product type, with zero tariffs on grain seeds, aircraft, and related machinery, while live animals and road vehicles are taxed between 5% and 20% [2] - The highest tariff rate of 40% applies to cocoa powder, tobacco products, medical waste, mineral water, and dietary beverages, among others [2] Group 2 - The implementation of a unified external tariff aims to coordinate trade policies and enhance competitiveness within the CEEAC [3] - Despite the new tariff structure, differences remain as value-added tax and consumption tax are still independent of the unified external tariff for member states [3] - Internal trade growth within the region is estimated at only 3% due to lower transaction levels and persistent tariff and non-tariff barriers [3]