DR Congo: President Tshisekedi Initiates 2026 Business Climate Barometer Preparations

President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has directed his cabinet, via the Business Climate Unit (Cellule Climat des Affaires), to initiate preparations for the second edition of the National Business Climate Barometer, scheduled for launch in 2026.

This directive, issued during the 99th ordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers on September 25, 2026, mandates the launch of a new national survey to assess the business climate. This initiative, led by the Cellule Climat des Affaires, aims to gather comprehensive data and insights into the challenges and opportunities for businesses operating in the DRC, building upon a previous edition. While the specific objectives of this survey are not detailed in the excerpt, such barometers typically seek to identify bottlenecks, evaluate the effectiveness of reforms, and inform future policy decisions to enhance the ease of doing business and attract investment.

This development signals the DRC government's continued focus on improving the investment and business environment, a critical factor for economic growth and foreign direct investment. For legal practitioners, this means a potential for future legislative or regulatory reforms aimed at streamlining business processes, enhancing investor protection, or addressing identified bottlenecks. Businesses should view this as an opportunity to provide feedback and influence policy, as the barometer's findings often inform government action. A better business climate can lead to increased commercial activity, new market entrants, and a more robust legal and regulatory framework for commercial transactions, ultimately fostering a more predictable and attractive environment for investors.

The "Baromètre national du climat des affaires" operates within the broader framework of economic governance and investment promotion in the DRC. While not a direct legal instrument itself, its findings are intended to inform policy decisions, potentially leading to amendments to existing laws (e.g., Investment Code, Company Law, Tax Code) or the introduction of new regulations. The Cellule Climat des Affaires likely operates under a presidential decree or ministerial order, tasked with coordinating efforts to improve the business environment. The Council of Ministers, as the executive body, plays a crucial role in approving and directing such national initiatives. The legal framework for investment and business in the DRC is primarily governed by the Investment Code (Loi n° 004/2002 du 21 février 2002 portant Code des Investissements), the OHADA Uniform Acts (Organisation pour l'Harmonisation en Afrique du Droit des Affaires), and various sector-specific laws and regulations. The key parties involved are President Félix Tshisekedi, his cabinet, and specifically the Cellule Climat des Affaires, with the Council of Ministers serving as the forum for this directive.

Attorneys should advise clients, particularly foreign investors and large domestic enterprises, to closely monitor the progress and findings of the 2026 National Business Climate Barometer. This survey will likely highlight areas of concern and potential reform, offering a window into the government's priorities for improving the ease of doing business. Practitioners should prepare to engage with potential legislative changes that may arise from the barometer's recommendations, such as reforms in taxation, customs, land tenure, or judicial efficiency. Businesses should consider participating in any consultation processes related to the barometer to ensure their concerns are heard and addressed in future policy formulations, thereby proactively shaping the regulatory landscape.