Public revenue in the Democratic Republic of Congo: a persistent challenge
In a complex economic and financial context, the mobilization of public revenues in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains a major challenge. According to statistical data from the Central Bank of Congo (BCC), State revenues reached a mobilization rate of 56.8% as of July 21, 2023.
By analyzing these figures by item, we observe that revenue from direct and indirect taxes, managed by the General Tax Directorate (DGI), reached 860.9 billion Congolese Francs (CDF). This represents a drop from the monthly forecast of 1,544.9 billion Congolese Francs (CDF). Similarly, customs revenue, managed by the General Directorate of Customs and Excise (DGDA), reached 285.0 billion Congolese Francs (CDF) against a monthly program of 438.5 billion Congolese Francs (CDF).
The administrative, state and judicial revenue of the General Directorate of Administrative, State and Judicial Revenue (DGRAD) amounted to 201.5 billion Congolese Francs (CDF) against a monthly program of 365.1 billion Congolese Francs (CDF) .
These figures clearly indicate a deficit in the mobilization of public revenue in the DRC. The deficit amounts to 647.3 billion Congolese Francs (CDF), and was filled thanks to budgetary support from the World Bank.
Faced with this situation, it is essential to understand the factors that influence the mobilization of public revenues in the DRC. These factors include weak tax and customs collection capacity, corruption, tax evasion and inefficient management of resources.
To remedy this problem, measures must be taken. There is a need to strengthen tax management systems, improve transparency and governance in revenue collection, fight corruption, promote tax education and build the capacity of tax administrations.
In addition, it is essential to diversify the sources of State revenue, by encouraging the development of the private sector, by promoting investments and by exploiting in a sustainable manner the natural resources of the country.
In conclusion, public revenue mobilization in the DRC remains a major challenge. The weak performance in this area has important consequences on the finances of the State and limits its possibilities to finance public services and to support the economic development of the country. Concrete actions must be taken to remedy this situation and ensure more efficient management of public revenues in the DRC