Government takes measures to stabilize cocoa prices

Kinshasa, DRC – In a decisive move to safeguard its vital cocoa sector, the Congolese government has unveiled a comprehensive action plan to counteract the sharp decline in international cocoa prices. Recognizing the potential impact on the national economy, the Council of Ministers, chaired by President Félix Tshisekedi, has adopted a multi-pronged strategy designed to stabilize the market and support local producers.

The strategy, spearheaded by the Minister of Foreign Trade, Julien Paluku, encompasses crucial fiscal adjustments, a renewed focus on enhancing agricultural output, fostering local processing capabilities to add value to the commodity, and ensuring the security and efficiency of commercial trade routes. This proactive approach signals the government's commitment to not only weathering the current market volatility but also strengthening the long-term resilience of the cocoa industry.

Beyond domestic market stabilization, the DRC is also gearing up for significant international engagement. Preparations are underway for the third review of the country's trade policy with the World Trade Organization (WTO). This process, which will involve preparatory consultations in Kinshasa with an upcoming WTO mission, underscores the DRC's dedication to integrating into the global trade framework while advocating for its national economic interests. The review will cover a broad spectrum of economic sectors, highlighting the interconnectedness of trade policy with agriculture, customs, environment, and investment.

“

In perspective of this activity planned in Geneva on October 28 and 30, 2026, a mission from the WTO secretariat is expected in Kinshasa from May 11 to 15, 2026, constituting the second visit in the framework of the preparations.