Title: Losses linked to illegal activities in the cocoa sector in the DRC are of concern to actors in the agricultural sector
Introduction :
The cocoa sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing significant financial losses caused by illegal activities and fraud. According to recent statistics, the province of North Kivu loses around $60 million every year due to this well-organized fraud. This situation is of great concern to cocoa exporters, who are calling on the government to take urgent action to combat illicit exports and smuggling.
A significant financial loss:
Cocoa exporters have revealed that more than half of Congolese cocoa production in North Kivu province disappears every week due to fraudulent practices. This represents an annual loss of $60 million, given that the selling price of a ton of cocoa on the international market is around $3,200. Faced with this alarming situation, the actors of the cocoa sector call on the central government to take firm measures to put an end to these illicit exports and smuggling.
The importance of cocoa exports:
Cocoa exports in the DRC play a crucial role in the import of foreign currency and the economic growth of the country. However, fraud and illegal activities undermine this dynamic. Exporters stress the need to restore order in the cocoa sector in order to maximize the economic benefits generated by these exports.
Towards enhanced traceability:
Exporters also anticipate future regulations concerning the traceability of exported cocoa. In 2025, the DRC will have to put in place measures to guarantee the traceability of its cocoa. Indeed, if the cocoa is exported fraudulently, it loses its traceability, which makes its sale on international markets more difficult. The cocoa industry in the DRC must therefore prepare for these new regulations and ensure that its practices comply with international standards.
Illegal taxes and financial obstacles:
Exporters also denounced illegal taxes and excessive fees imposed by certain services, which hamper companies’ cash flow. They call for a reform of this system in order to reduce financial burdens and improve the competitiveness of Congolese cocoa on the world market.
Conclusion :
The financial losses caused by illegal activities in the cocoa sector in the DRC are a growing concern for actors in the agricultural sector. To ensure the economic growth and sustainability of this industry, it is essential that strict measures are taken to combat fraud and smuggling.