The regulatory authority for subcontracting in the private sector (ARSP) in the Democratic Republic of Congo recently took a radical decision by suspending nine subcontracting companies belonging to the Russian Kazakh shareholders of the ERG group. These companies, operating in particular in the Metalkol, Frontiers, Comidé and Boss Mining sectors, are accused of violating the law on subcontracting.
Among the suspended companies are Technology Global, Etalon, Surtek, Rocada, Transversal, Standar Fiable, Vision, Socom and Roche Solide. These companies have until now monopolized most of the markets, thus compromising the development of Congolese companies with predominantly local capital.
Miguel Kashala Katemb, director general of ARSP, stressed the importance of this decision as part of President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo’s efforts to strengthen the national economy. He clarified that it is not a question of attacking multinationals, but of ensuring the application of laws on subcontracting to diversify the Congolese economy.
This measure is part of a broader approach aimed at freeing the Congolese value chain from illicit practices and promoting the development of local businesses. The ARSP seems determined to enforce the rules in force, as evidenced by the actions taken against other foreign groups such as the Canadian group Barrick and the Chinese company Sicomines.
In conclusion, this decision to suspend Russian Kazakh subcontracting companies by the ARSP constitutes an important step towards the consolidation of the Congolese private sector and the protection of national interests.