ARSP Introduces 60-Day Compliance Period to Enforce Local Participation in Mineral Transport
DRC Moves to Enforce 50% Local Transport Rule in Mining Industry with 60-Day Compliance Deadline
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Regulatory Authority for Subcontracting in the Private Sector (ARSP) has announced the imminent implementation of a 60-day moratorium for companies operating in the mining sector.
The measure aims to ensure compliance with existing regulations requiring the inclusion of Congolese transport companies in the transportation of mineral resources.
A decree issued by the Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Transport stipulates that at least 50% of contracts for transporting mining cargo and related goods must be allocated to Congolese public transport companies.
Despite the legal requirement, the provision has remained largely unenforced in practice.
Following a tripartite meeting involving the Ministry of Transport, the Federation of Congolese Businesses (FEC), and the ARSP, authorities agreed to grant affected companies a 60-day grace period to align their operations with the regulations.
This decision comes against a concerning backdrop. Congolese transporters currently handle only about 1% of the more than 3 million tons of copper exported annually from the country, highlighting a significant imbalance in the distribution of economic benefits within the mining value chain.
The Director General of the ARSP, Miguel Katemb, has expressed strong determination to enforce the measure, describing it as critical to strengthening the national economy and supporting domestic enterprises.
“Our country exports more than 3 million tons of copper each year, yet Congolese transporters account for only around 1% of that volume. This situation cannot continue. It is a matter of safeguarding our economy,” he stated.
He also emphasized that awareness campaigns have already been conducted, particularly in collaboration with the Federation of Congolese Businesses, to prepare companies for compliance.
Authorities have pledged to closely monitor implementation while maintaining a stable and predictable business environment.
The moratorium therefore serves as a formal compliance window for companies in the mining sector, signaling the government’s intention to move from policy commitments to enforcement.
This initiative aligns with the broader economic vision of President Félix Tshisekedi, which prioritizes the promotion of local content, the development of Congolese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the retention of greater value within the national economy.
