About Business in DRC

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a country which offers abundant opportunities for American companies, through its unique biodiversity, vast mineral and forest resources, rich soil conducive to agriculture, large population base and generally open trading system.  However, the DRC is also considered one of the most difficult places in the world in which to do business. Businesses should be well informed before starting up operations in order to be successful.  Please refer to the guidance listed below on doing businesses in the DRC, as well as information that can help you better understand the DRC’s business environment.
   

Steps to get started 

1. Get in touch with the nearest U.S Export Assistance Center in your area for information and advice.  

2. Refer to the Country Commercial Guide (CCG) for a clear overview about market conditions, best export prospects, financing, investment climate and legal issues in the DRC. 

3. Work closely with a local legal attorney to avoid mistakes due to ignorance, unfair competition, scams, and other hazards.

4. Consult with American companies already operating in the DRC to take advantage of their experience. Here is the list of US companies (PDF 64.15kb) and representatives of USA’s interests in the DRC.

5. Contact the Economic and Commercial section of the US Embassy in Kinshasa at KinshasaEcon@state.gov for in-depth expertise on doing business in the DRC.

6. Fill out an Advocacy Questionnaire in order to receive the US Embassy’s advocacy in case of unfair competition in the market. Please send the completed questionnaire to the Advocacy Center.

7. Be assured that the DRC’s National Agency for Investment Promotion will help facilitate the process of setting up your business in a timely manner and help you reap the benefits of the DRC’s Investment Code.  The DRC’s Investment Code may only benefit you if certain conditions apply, however.

Customized and Non Customized Services

The Commercial Section of the US Embassy in Kinshasa provides customized and non customized services to American companies to find the best local potential buyers, distributors, or business partners:

• Gold Key service      
• International Partner Search 
• International company Profile 
• Single Company Promotion: Provides meeting space and pre-screened invitations to help you successfully present your products or service seminars.
• Customized Market research    
• Catalog Exhibitions:
• Trade Leads Program