DRC: Abolition of taxes and royalties on maize to ease the daily lives of Congolese
The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo, under the leadership of Prime Minister Jean-Michel Suminwa, has taken a commendable initiative by adopting a series of measures to combat the high cost of living, a burden that heavily affects the daily lives of Congolese citizens. These decisions, made during the Council of Ministers on Friday, August 9th, demonstrate the authorities’ determination to address the population’s concerns regarding purchasing power and food security.
Among the key measures adopted, the removal of duties, taxes, and fees on maize and maize flour stands out. Maize, a staple food for the majority of Congolese, was previously heavily taxed, contributing to rising market prices. By eliminating these fiscal and parafiscal charges, the government aims not only to reduce the cost of living for Congolese families but also to stabilize the market by improving access to these essential goods.
The Suminwa government goes further by implementing measures to regulate the domestic market. By ordering the evaluation and certification of maize and maize flour stocks, as well as monitoring prices and the exchange rates applied by major importers and distributors, the government shows its commitment to ensuring transparency and protecting consumers from exploitation. This concerted action directly addresses the concerns of a population suffering from rampant inflation and price speculation.
Moreover, the decision to eliminate illegal barriers that affect the cost of essential goods demonstrates the government’s commitment to removing obstacles that hinder trade and to punishing those who take advantage of citizens’ economic distress. This proactive approach is crucial for restoring citizens’ trust in institutions and ensuring the fair distribution of resources.
