On September 4, 2024, Finance Minister Doudou Fwamba Likonde opened a 3-day workshop focused on improving the business creation process in the DRC. The meeting’s main goal was to ensure the respect of the three days to set up a business. 

According to Likonde, achieving this goal could be done by increasing the resources of the Single Business Creation Desk (GUCE) and centralizing all procedures for issuing the tax identification number (NIF).

The government plans to provide subsidies to enhance the GUCE's resources, although the amount has not been disclosed. According to the Ministry of Finance, this subsidy is essential because Guce will now handle all procedures for obtaining the tax identification number, which the Directorate General of Taxes issues.

This initiative aligns with the government's goal to improve the business climate in the DRC by simplifying administrative processes for entrepreneurs. Ultimately, the reform aims to support economic development by making it easier to start businesses and boosting investor confidence.

The OHADA code, which regulates business start-ups in the DRC, states that companies should be created within three days. However, this timeline is often exceeded due to bureaucratic hurdles and issues like difficulties in obtaining a tax identification number. The fragmented procedures for getting TINs have complicated Guce's mission to streamline these processes.

OS