The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Ministry of Foreign Trade announced a new digital platform for processing and renewing import-export numbers, effective October 5, 2025.

The innovation centralizes all applications through the Integrated Single Window for Foreign Trade (GUICE), the ministry stated in a communique published on October 1, 2025.

In the DRC, engaging in import and export trade requires registration and approval from the Foreign Trade Department. The import-export number is valid for one calendar year and must be renewed no later than March 31 of the following year.

The communique, signed by Ministry Secretary-General Jules Muilu, emphasized that the platform is intended to reduce the time and costs associated with trade procedures. It is also designed to enhance transparency, strengthen the traceability of operations, and guarantee unified access to all connected services of the SEGUCE (Société d’exploitation du guichet unique du commerce extérieur) online platform.

Prior to its deployment, the new import-export number management system underwent a pilot phase, which included technical and administrative adjustments. The Ministry of Foreign Trade stated that this step allowed the system to be reliable and effective while involving key stakeholders in the sector.

The initiative is part of broader government reforms aimed at facilitating commercial exchanges and is based on Decree No. 15/019 of October 15, 2015, which established GUICE.

Ronsard Luabeya