** Kinshasa and the African continental free trade area: an opportunity for economic integration or a challenge to be met? **
Kinshasa, April 15, 2025-The announcement made by Julien Paluku, Minister of Foreign Commerce of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), concerning the deposit of a list of 6,439 products in the continental African free trade area (ZLECAF) has raised hopes for the economic future of the country and the continent. This commitment to economic integration is an important step for a nation rich in resources but often faced with structural challenges. However, it is essential to consider this initiative from different angles in order to fully assess the implications and conditions necessary to maximize the profits.
### A large consumer market
One of the strengths of this initiative is the prospect of a continental market of 1.4 billion consumers. The African economy, while being diversified, is marked by a considerable potential which is still only partly exploited. Minister Paluku stressed that this situation would allow Congolese products to make their way on the continent without the constraint of customs costs, which could stimulate exports.
However, the question that arises is that of competitiveness. What are the specific assets of Congolese products? Are they able to compete with those from other African nations that could also benefit from it? The qualitative aspect of the offer will be crucial to ensure that free movement is effectively translated into beneficial exchanges.
### Infrastructure: an essential prerequisite
Paluku also mentioned the need to develop infrastructure, a fundamental point for the DRC to take full advantage of this initiative. Without a reliable transport network, sufficient energy sources and adequate transformation facilities, the circulation of goods will remain limited. The implementation of strategic economic development, industrialization and agricultural processing plans is essential. This raises the question of the allocation of resources by the government and the priorities to be established in a context of often restricted budgets.
It would be interesting to look at the examples of other African countries that have managed to overcome similar obstacles. What lessons could the DRC draw from these experiences? Indeed, a comparative analysis of infrastructure and industrialization policies could offer solutions.
### Economic actors to mobilize
The Minister also indicated that Congolese economic operators must be ready to seize the opportunities offered by the ZLECAF. This means that there should be a concerted effort to develop production capacity as well as the quality of the products to export. How to prepare these actors to deal with increased competition and how to support them in this transition? Training and financing programs could be envisaged to ensure that local businesses are actually ready.
### an inclusive vision for sustainable development
Finally, Rwandan aggression and the systematic looting of Congolese resources, mentioned by Paluku, raise broader questions about stability and security in the region. Economic integration cannot be done in a climate of insecurity. It therefore becomes imperative to campaign for peace and security in parallel with economic approaches. Diplomacy and regional cooperation will be central elements not to be overlooked.
### Conclusion
The approach of the DRC vis-à-vis the Zlecaf is promising but requires a holistic approach. The urgency of building infrastructure, preparing economic operators and guaranteeing peace cannot be overlooked. The success of this project will depend on the country’s ability to implement these strategies with rigor and determination. In dialogue with all actors, from government to entrepreneurs, a real synergy could be created to transform this ambition into a tangible reality.
The free movement of goods can become a vector of development but it must be combined with an inclusive and sustainable vision, capable of federating the energies of the country while respecting the requirements of the African markets. The promise of a future is both prosperous and fair for the DRC and, by extension, for the African continent.