Fatshimetrie, September 03, 2024 – A significant increase has been observed on international markets in the price of rubber, a major agricultural product of the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to the latest reported data, a kilogram of rubber was trading at 0.90 US dollars during the week of September 02 to 07, 2024, up 4.65% compared to the previous week when it was fixed at 0.86 USD.
This increase reflects a steady upward trend in the value of rubber on international markets, thus strengthening its position among the most demanded agricultural products. In addition to rubber, other products such as robusta coffee and cocoa have also seen an increase in their prices, highlighting a positive dynamic for the agricultural sector in the DRC.
However, this upward trend is not uniform for all products. Indeed, Arabica coffee recorded a slight decrease in its price, from USD 4.40 to USD 4.38 per kilogram, a decrease of 0.45%. Despite these variations, other agricultural and forestry products such as papain, cinchona bark, totaquina powder, quinine salt and Rauwolfia maintained stability on the international market.
These price fluctuations are the result of changes in supply and demand, as well as global market conditions. The National Commission of Mercuriales of the Ministry of Foreign Trade emphasizes the importance of closely monitoring these trends to anticipate possible future developments.
Furthermore, it is interesting to note that rubber production in the DRC has increased significantly in recent years. With nearly 21,790 tonnes produced between January and August 2022, the DRC shows a notable increase compared to previous years. This positive trend is partly explained by the efforts made to revive rubber production in the country, particularly in the former provinces of Equateur and Orientale.
However, persistent challenges remain, such as the invasion of plantations by the bush and the lack of investors to fully develop the sector. Despite these obstacles, the DRC continues to assert its potential as a major rubber producer on the international scene.
In conclusion, the increase in the price of rubber on international markets reflects a positive trend for the DRC’s agricultural sector. With increasing production and encouraging prospects, rubber is positioning itself as a key player in the Congolese economy, offering development and growth opportunities for the country.