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Export and Import to Congo-Brazzaville
With a growing digital economy, expanding infrastructure, and bold initiatives like Congo Digital 2025 and the launch of CARIA (African Research Center for Artificial Intelligence), Congo-Brazzaville is becoming a regional tech player in Central Africa. But alongside these exciting developments lie several complex compliance and customs challenges that can make or break your import operations.
Tax
Up to 22%
Duty
Up to 20%
Lead Times
9-10 Weeks
Trade Restrictions
Subject to Pre-Inspections
Best Carrier Option
Freight Forwarder
Non-Working Days
Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays
Prominent Languages
French; Kikongo
Why the Republic of Congo
The Republic of Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville, is making significant strides in digital transformation. With over 89% broadband coverage and active participation in projects like the 2Africa undersea cable, the country is well-positioned to become a tech hub for Central Africa.
Major cities like Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire are experiencing rapid adoption of smartphones and connected devices. Initiatives such as the CARIA AI Center and a new national data center are boosting the demand for imported high-tech equipment.
That’s where things get tricky. Importing goods into Congo is far from straightforward.
Whether you’re moving telecommunications equipment, data center hardware, or mining tech, understanding the import to Congo process—and having the right partner on your side—is crucial.
Population
6.5 M
Biggest Industry by Export
Crude Petroleum
Capital City
Brazzaville
Biggest Industry by Import
Passenger and Cargo Ships
Common Challenges When You Import into Congo
IOR Requirements
In the Republic of Congo, importing dual-use goods, such as IT equipment or telecommunications hardware, requires a locally registered entity, also known as an Importer of Record (IOR). Without one, your goods won’t get past the border.
TecEx acts as your IOR Congo partner, ensuring every requirement is handled on your behalf.
Customs Valuation and Inconsistencies
Congo customs procedures can be unpredictable. Valuation disputes, document requests, and enforcement delays are common. While the country is a WTO member and part of CEMAC’s free trade area, trade laws can be inconsistently enforced.
Language and Labeling Requirements
Although not always enforced, it’s advisable to have price labels in French on your imported goods to avoid unnecessary scrutiny during customs clearance.
Infrastructure and Logistics
Unreliable road infrastructure, port delays, and limited access to remote areas can slow down last-mile delivery. Energy instability may also affect time-sensitive deliveries or equipment setup.
Top Countries Trading with The Republic of Congo
Asia
India
Asia
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
How TecEx Simplifies the Import Process
One Partner. One Process. Total Compliance.
At TecEx, we specialize in helping international clients import into Congo without the legal and operational headaches. Our Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) solution covers every detail, from the initial paperwork to customs clearance and final delivery.
Here’s How We Help:
IOR/EOR Services in Congo:
We act as your legal IOR/EOR, ensuring full compliance with Congo’s laws.
Customs Clearance:
Our in-depth knowledge of the Republic of Congo’s customs processes ensures your goods move smoothly through ports and checkpoints.
Pre-Compliance Support:
We handle licenses, certifications, and pre-shipment documentation.
End-to-End Logistics:
Final mile delivery anywhere in Congo, including rural or hard-to-reach areas.
TecEx is your go-to partner for reliable IOR services in Congo, especially for high-value or regulated technology shipments.
Opportunities for Tech Imports
Despite these hurdles, the demand for imported tech and digital infrastructure has never been higher in Congo-Brazzaville. If you’re in the tech, telecom, mining, or renewable energy space, the time to engage is now.
High-Demand Import Categories:
- Telecommunications Equipment – Fiber optic cables, 3G/4G towers, base stations
- IT and Data Center Hardware – Servers, storage systems, cooling equipment
- Cybersecurity Solutions – Secure digital identity systems, firewalls, VPNs
- Consumer Electronics – Smartphones, tablets, laptops
- Mining & Renewable Energy Tech – Machinery, solar panels, AI-powered resource management tools
With the government investing in digital skills development and partnering with global tech companies, the country’s infrastructure is catching up fast. Importing now can set you up for long-term success.
Exporting From Congo | A Glimpse into the Future
Right now, Congo’s exports are dominated by crude oil and natural resources. However, the country’s investment in digital skills and infrastructure hints at long-term potential for tech-related services.
Export Opportunities:
- Tech Talent – With digital training initiatives, a skilled workforce is emerging.
- Digital Services – Fintech, cloud computing, and software development may soon join the export conversation.
- Regional Hub Potential – With its new data center, Congo aims to become a regional digital powerhouse.
But growth won’t come without its challenges. Infrastructure issues, limited diversification, and the digital divide continue to restrict the tech export sector from reaching maturity.
Ready to simplify your cross-border shipping to Congo-Brazzaville?
If your organization needs to import into Congo, don’t leave compliance to chance. TecEx ensures your shipment lands safely, legally, and without delay, every time.
Contact TecEx today to get started.
