The contractual relationship between a prime contractor and a subcontractor must now be formalized through a written contract. This is one of the core mandates of Law No. 2025/010 of July 15, 2025, governing the subcontracting regime in Cameroon.

Under this law, the partnership can no longer rely on simple verbal agreements or informal purchase orders. Formalization through a written contract has become the central pillar for protecting all contracting parties.

The obligation to formalize: what the law says

The new legislation is unequivocal: subcontracting must be framed by a formal contract to prevent abuse and ensure transaction transparency. This requirement addresses several key aspects of the new text:

• The writing requirement: the law mandates that every subcontracting relationship be evidenced by a written document, duly signed by both parties, before any work begins.
• Validity of the contractual link: the contract serves as the sole legal proof of the nature and scope of reciprocal obligations, protecting the subcontractor against unilateral changes to the mission.
• The fight against the informal sector: by requiring a contract, the legislator aims to clean up the sector and ensure that only legally constituted companies up to date with their tax obligations can bid.

Why the contract is vital for your SME

Beyond legal constraints, signing a contract compliant with the 2025 law offers major strategic advantages:

1. Payment security: It precisely defines methods, prices, and, most importantly, payment deadlines—your primary tool against cash flow delays.
2. Scope definition: It strictly limits the work to be performed. Without a contract, a prime contractor could easily demand extra services at no additional cost.
3. Allocation of liability: The contract specifies who is responsible in case of damage or delay, thereby protecting your legal assets.

Mandatory clauses for a winning contract

To becompliant and effective, your subcontracting agreement must include:

• The precise object of the mission.
• The execution schedule.
• The price and revision conditions.
• The work acceptance procedures (Acceptance Certificates/PV).

Law No.2025/010 transforms the subcontracting agreement into a true shield for Cameroonian SMEs. Never start a project without a signed document: it is not just a legal requirement, it is a guarantee for your company's sustainability.