Title: The rise of agricultural products from the Democratic Republic of Congo on international markets
Introduction :
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is experiencing an upward trend in the sale of its agricultural and forestry products on international markets. During the week of September 4 to 9, 2023, many products such as Robusta coffee, Arabica coffee, cocoa, and even papain recorded an increase in their prices. This situation is encouraging for the country and bears witness to the quality and competitiveness of its agricultural production.
Robusta and Arabica coffee:
Robusta coffee, known for its strong taste and high caffeine content, is one of the DRC’s flagship products. According to projections from the National Price Market Commission of the Ministry of Foreign Trade, the price of Robusta coffee is expected to reach USD 2.50 per kilogram, up from the previous week. Similarly, Arabica coffee, popular for its milder aromas, is seeing a price increase to $2.48 per kilogram.
Cocoa and other products:
Besides coffee, other agricultural products from the DRC are also on the rise in international markets. Cocoa, used in the manufacture of chocolate, sees its price increase to 1.92 USD per kilogram. Papain, an enzyme extracted from papaya used in the food and pharmaceutical industry, also saw a price increase to USD 16.35 per kilogram. Similarly, cinchona bark, totaquina powder, quinine salt and rauwolfia saw their prices increase to USD 1.90, USD 55.80, USD 94.86 and USD 1.58 per kilogram respectively.
The rubber :
On the other hand, the price of rubber remains stable on the international markets, holding at 0.76 USD per kilogram. Rubber, used in many industries such as automotive or construction, is an important export product for the DRC.
Conclusion :
The Democratic Republic of Congo continues to position itself as a major player on international markets thanks to the increase in prices of its agricultural and forestry products. This testifies to the quality and potential of its productions, notably Robusta and Arabica coffee, cocoa, papain, and other products which are experiencing growing demand. This favorable trend is an opportunity for the country to develop its economy, attract investments and strengthen its place on the international scene.