Doing Business with Congo (Congo-Brazzaville)

Exporting to Congo involves several key steps to ensure regulatory compliance:

1. Conduct Market Research

   • Identify demand for your product in Congo and understand the competitive landscape.

2. Verify Product Compliance

   • Ensure your product meets Congolese standards and obtain any required certifications.

3. Logistics and Customs Clearance

   • Work with a customs broker to manage import duties and documentation via the Customs Directorate.

Key Contacts

• Congolese Customs: Customs Website

Importing goods into Congo-Brazzaville requires registration and adherence to standard HS classification.

1. Register Your Business

   • Ensure your business is registered with Congolese authorities to obtain a tax ID.

2. Classify Your Goods

   • Use correct HS codes for accurate duty assessment and tariff calculation.

Incorporating a company in the Republic of Congo involves several legal steps managed by the Commercial Registry:

1. Draft Articles of Incorporation

   • Prepare founding documents including details on directors and registered capital.

2. Register the Company

   • File incorporation documents with the Commercial Registry to obtain a Tax Identification Number.

3. Social Security Enrollment

   • Register for social insurance and mandatory employee benefits.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Economy: Economy Website

Setting up a manufacturing plant provides access to the CEMAC regional market:

1. Choose a Suitable Location

   • Identify industrial zones with access to power and logistics infrastructure.

2. Secure Financing

   • Explore investment incentives offered for manufacturing in oil, timber, and mining.

Trademark protection is handled via OAPI, ensuring legal rights across member states:

1. Trademark Search

   • Check availability through the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) database.

2. Registration and Certification

   • Trademarks are typically valid for **10 years** and can be renewed indefinitely.

Key Contacts

• OAPI: OAPI Website

1. Language and Culture

• The official language is **French**. Networking and personal trust are critical for successful business dealings.

2. Economic Factors

• The currency is the **Central African CFA Franc (XAF)**. It is pegged to the Euro, providing some exchange rate stability.