The first meeting between the Federation of Congolese Enterprises (FEC) and the Minister of Finance, Doudou Fwamba, took place on September 25, 2025, at the Financial Center of Kinshasa. According to the FEC’s report, the employers’ organization, led by Robert Malumba, presented several concerns aimed at improving the business climate in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The FEC emphasized the need to renew the moratorium on the fiscal clearance certificate, which expired on September 25, 2025. This measure had been introduced to facilitate certain economic transactions, such as opening bank accounts, granting loans, and signing contracts, while assessing the implementation of the standardized invoice reform. The organization considers a temporary renewal of the moratorium essential to prevent new disruptions in business operations.
The private sector also raised tax-related issues, particularly excise duties on products such as sulfuric acid, beer, and tobacco. The FEC recommended reducing these taxes and denounced the application of deforestation tax to agricultural land. It also highlighted difficulties faced by local industries in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and called for clarifications to ensure these mechanisms genuinely support domestic production.
The meeting also addressed the allocation of dividends from mining companies. The FEC urged that their use for state benefit be aligned with governance standards, including holding general meetings.
Other topics discussed included the reimbursement of value-added tax (VAT) credits and the need to harmonize national and provincial tax policies. The FEC called for clear alignment to make the tax system predictable and consistent across the country.
In response, Minister Doudou Fwamba announced the creation of a permanent consultation framework with the FEC and the upcoming establishment of a National Fiscal Mediation Commission. This new body will handle disputes between the state and taxpayers, promote dialogue, enhance transparency, and support an inclusive tax reform.
