The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) imported about 14,500 tonnes of pork, mostly cuts and offal, in 2023.  The figure, disclosed in the latest annual report of the Brazilian Animal Protein Association (ABPA), is over 28% higher than that recorded in 2022. That year, the DRC imported 11,300 tonnes of pork.

The surge placed the DRC as Brazil’s third-biggest pork buyer in Africa. Angola and Côte d'Ivoire are the top two. Increased demand for Brazilian pork highlights the potential for local producers to enter this market and develop a national supply.

Pork is widely consumed in the DRC, both in rural areas and urban outskirts. However, FAO data shows that national production remains low; it grew from 24,622 tonnes in 2012 to 27,415 tonnes in 2022.

To bolster the sector, many experts believe several interventions are needed, especially in production and marketing. These include educating farmers on good hygiene practices to ensure safe products for consumers. It's also important to improve access to essential inputs to lower production costs and introduce mechanisms for farmers to sell pork and by-products to restaurants, hotels, delicatessens, and supermarkets.

Espoir Olodo