On May 8, 2025, the Minister of Foreign Trade, Julien Paluku Kahongya, signed an order temporarily suspending the import of several hygiene products into the western zone of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The measure, communicated by the ministry’s department, targets single-use baby diapers, wipes, toilet paper, handkerchiefs, and towels.

According to the authorities, the move aims to protect local industry, especially in Kinshasa, Kongo-Central, and Kwilu, which host several active processing units. 

In Kinshasa, companies such as Unity Manufacturing, Lani Services, and Bopeto SARL produce disposable diapers, sanitary towels, wipes, handkerchiefs, and sanitary paper locally. These companies supply the local market and help reduce imports. Unfortunately, the production capacities are not always publicly available, making it difficult to assess their ability to meet total demand.

Based in Kinshasa, Lani Services SARL makes toilet paper, handkerchiefs, towels, and base paper locally. Its products are distributed to households, medical establishments, hotels, and restaurants. Bopeto SARL operates a processing unit that manufactures and packages a full range of sanitary paper products under its brand, targeting the urban market in and around Kinshasa.

Exemption measures are applicable in cases of shortages or difficulties accessing local products. In such cases, importers may request free waivers, subject to justified applications validated by the Guichet unique intégral du commerce extérieur (SEGUCE-RDC).

This article was initially published in French by Boaz Kabeya (intern)

Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho