Fatshimetrie, October 29, 2024 – Frozen food distributors in the Democratic Republic of Congo were recently called upon to collaborate to establish a consultation framework to ensure fair distribution, respectful of the interests of each and the rights of local entrepreneurs. This initiative, presented in a press release consulted by Fatshimetrie, highlights the need to find a balance in the frozen food distribution sector to ensure both the profitability of companies and access to products for consumers.
The Ministry of National Economy highlighted the importance of this approach during a visit by Albert Kasongo, the Minister’s chief of staff, to various fresh produce sales establishments in Kinshasa. This visit revealed practices that are potentially detrimental to local entrepreneurs, including the pressure exerted by large cold rooms on smaller structures by selling directly at retail.
In accordance with the Law on Freedom of Prices and Competition, precautionary measures have been put in place to counter these practices. Indeed, some importers install their cold rooms near local structures, thus disrupting the market and harming the private initiative of local actors. These unfair competition practices are not in line with the vision of President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, who aspires to inclusive economic development and the emergence of a prosperous Congolese middle class.
The Ministry of National Economy is thus committed to protecting the interests of local entrepreneurs while promoting an environment conducive to economic growth. The establishment of a framework for consultation between distributors of frozen products aims to guarantee a fair sharing of the market, thus promoting respect for common interests and the rights of each.
In conclusion, the establishment of this framework for consultation marks an important step in the regulation of the frozen food distribution sector in the DRC. By promoting healthy and fair competition, economic actors will be able to continue their activities while contributing to the economic development of the country.