Explore The Northern Corridor
Business Environment
Overview
Trade procedures in the DRC involve a series of administrative and regulatory steps that govern the import, export, and transit of goods. The system is being progressively modernized despite challenges faced in terms of policy implementation and other bottlenecks.For further details on trade procedures (import and export), follow the link below to DRC customs platform
Transit Goods Regulations
The DRC is a key transit corridor linking inland countries (e.g., Central African Republic, South Sudan) to the Atlantic Ocean. Transit procedures are governed by regional protocols and customs cooperation through COMESA, ECCAS, and the Tripartite Transport Corridor.
✅ Key Features:
Transit bonds are required for goods in transit.
Goods must move under sealed customs supervision.
Major transit corridors include Matadi–Kinshasa–Lubumbashi–Kasumbalesa (Zambia), Kisangani - Beni - Kasindi; Kisangani - Bunia - Mahagi; Goma - Bunagana; Bukavu - Uvira (Northern Corridor and Central Corridor)
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✅ Key Features:
Transit bonds are required for goods in transit.
Goods must move under sealed customs supervision.
Major transit corridors include Matadi–Kinshasa–Lubumbashi–Kasumbalesa (Zambia), Kisangani - Beni - Kasindi; Kisangani - Bunia - Mahagi; Goma - Bunagana; Bukavu - Uvira (Northern Corridor and Central Corridor)
Export Regulations
✅ Steps to Export Goods:
1. Export Authorization/License:
o Needed for minerals, agricultural products, timber, etc.
2. Commercial Invoice & Packing List
3. Customs Export Declaration (SAD):
o Filed electronically via GUCE.
4. Inspection by OCC:
o Verification of quality, quantity, and packaging.
5. Payment of Export Fees:
o May include FPI levy (2%) and other sector-specific charges.
6. Final Clearance by DGDA
7. Goods Exit:
o Via designated land borders, ports (Matadi, Boma), or airports.
✅Special Regulations:
• Mining exports are regulated under the Mining Code.
• Timber exports require certification for legality and sustainability.
• Some agricultural products need phytosanitary certificates.
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1. Export Authorization/License:
o Needed for minerals, agricultural products, timber, etc.
2. Commercial Invoice & Packing List
3. Customs Export Declaration (SAD):
o Filed electronically via GUCE.
4. Inspection by OCC:
o Verification of quality, quantity, and packaging.
5. Payment of Export Fees:
o May include FPI levy (2%) and other sector-specific charges.
6. Final Clearance by DGDA
7. Goods Exit:
o Via designated land borders, ports (Matadi, Boma), or airports.
✅Special Regulations:
• Mining exports are regulated under the Mining Code.
• Timber exports require certification for legality and sustainability.
• Some agricultural products need phytosanitary certificates.
Import Regulations
✅ Steps to Import Goods:
1. Import License (if applicable):
o Issued by the Ministry of Commerce for restricted goods.
2. Commercial Invoice & Packing List:
o Provided by the exporter.
3. Proforma Invoice & Import Declaration Form (FDI):
o Required for customs clearance.
4. Pre-shipment Inspection (by BIVAC/SGS):
o Mandatory for goods over USD 2,500 FOB.
5. Customs Declaration (SAD):
o Submitted via ASYCUDA++ or GUCE platform.
6. Payment of Duties and Taxes:
o Includes customs duty, VAT (16%), and administrative fees.
7. Inspection by OCC:
o Physical or documentary check for compliance and quality.
8. Goods Released:
o Upon final customs clearance.
✅ Key Notes:
• HS Code classification is crucial for duty rates.
• Some goods are subject to specific product certifications or approvals.
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1. Import License (if applicable):
o Issued by the Ministry of Commerce for restricted goods.
2. Commercial Invoice & Packing List:
o Provided by the exporter.
3. Proforma Invoice & Import Declaration Form (FDI):
o Required for customs clearance.
4. Pre-shipment Inspection (by BIVAC/SGS):
o Mandatory for goods over USD 2,500 FOB.
5. Customs Declaration (SAD):
o Submitted via ASYCUDA++ or GUCE platform.
6. Payment of Duties and Taxes:
o Includes customs duty, VAT (16%), and administrative fees.
7. Inspection by OCC:
o Physical or documentary check for compliance and quality.
8. Goods Released:
o Upon final customs clearance.
✅ Key Notes:
• HS Code classification is crucial for duty rates.
• Some goods are subject to specific product certifications or approvals.