### Kinshasa: the drop in second-hand vehicle sales and its socio-economic repercussions
On May 16, 2025, a disturbing trend was reported in Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): a significant fall in second -hand vehicle sales. This phenomenon, worrying in itself, deserves a deep analysis of the factors that underlie it and its implications for the automotive sector as well as for the economy in general.
#### A market in distress
Papitsho Luyindula, advisor to the National Committee for Vehicle Resellers (CNRV), stressed that weekly sales, which previously reached five or six vehicles, fell to a single vehicle per week. This decline is not an isolated phenomenon, but rather a reflection of a broader economic context, marked by a decrease in the purchasing power of the Congolese. Several elements explain this situation:
1. ** Decrease in purchasing power **: The deterioration of economic conditions, particularly for the middle and lower classes, seems to be a determining factor. With the increase in the cost of living, many people are forced to review their budgetary priorities, which can affect their investment capacities in a vehicle, often perceived as a luxury rather than an essential need.
2. ** Difficult road conditions **: Transport infrastructure in Kinshasa, often in poor condition, aggravates the ordeal of users. The frequent traffic jams and the degradation of the roads make the idea of buying a vehicle less attractive. This raises questions about the need for public investment in infrastructure to guarantee a transport service that meets citizens’ expectations.
3. ** Administrative harassment **: the bureaucratic procedures faced by the owners and users of vehicles constitute a major obstacle. The drawbacks linked to obtaining documents or the regularization of files can dissuade those who envision the purchase of a vehicle.
#### The weight of taxes and taxes
M. Luyinndula also pointed out the complexity and cost of the many applied taxes and taxes. Beyond the simple purchase transaction, customs commissions and other imposed royalties can considerably inflate the final price of the vehicle. For resellers, this situation represents a major challenge, hampering their ability to maintain competitive prices on the market. This refers to a reflection on the balance to be established between the need to operate the tax system and the importance of supporting a vital sector for the economy.
### The lack of institutional support
Another point raised is the apparent disinterest of public authorities towards local resellers. The trend of public institutions to favor foreign companies for their purchases of vehicles has significant implications on the local market. Indeed, the inequitable competition that can set up encourages to question the fairness of a business environment which would seem to disadvantage local actors.
#### Towards a collective reflection
In this context, the call for the reduction of taxes by Mr. Luyinndula could open an essential debate on the way in which the State could support the automotive sector while ensuring its own funding. In this regard, it would be wise to consider solutions that combine the need to generate revenues for the State to make the automotive market more accessible.
It would also be relevant to question the ideas of market regulation and to promote local initiatives that encourage self-entrepreneurship in the field. What mechanisms could be implemented to guarantee institutional support for local resellers? In what ways could public-private partnerships be reinforced to stimulate the vitality of the sector?
#### Conclusion
The situation of second-hand vehicle sales in Kinshasa goes far beyond a simple commercial question. It is emblematic of the socio-economic challenges encountered by a population plagued by growing financial difficulties, in the face of deficient infrastructure and sometimes discouraging regulations. Responding to this crisis not only requires awareness but also concerted measures, involving all the actors concerned. In the end, it is essential to create a business climate conducive to growth, thus guaranteeing opportunities for both resellers and future buyers. This collective challenge must be taken up with prudence and commitment, for the benefit of all.