Finance Ministry Suspends Interministerial Order Amid Startup Tax Confusion

Kinshasa, DRC, August 2, 2026 - The Ministry of Finance has announced the suspension of Interministerial Order No. 015, which was proposed by the Ministry of Digital Economy and signed by the Finance Ministry on July 20, 2026. This order, which aimed to introduce new tax measures, has been clarified to not apply to startups, which are already protected under the Startup Act Ord.-law 22/030 of September 8, 2022, specifically Article 50, and the Digital Code Article 384. The suspension was enacted on the evening of August 1, 2026, pending further clarifications regarding its implications for the startup ecosystem.

The Finance Ministry emphasized that the hierarchy of norms dictates that a decree cannot override existing statutes, thereby ensuring that startups and formalized micro and small enterprises remain unaffected by the newly proposed tax measures. Officials have reiterated their commitment to fostering an environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, stating that "no tax should stifle initiative or innovation." This decision comes as a relief to many in the startup community, who had expressed concerns over potential financial burdens that could hinder their growth and development.

The suspension of the order reflects the government's ongoing efforts to balance regulatory frameworks with the need to support emerging businesses in the DRC. As the digital economy continues to evolve, the Finance Ministry's proactive approach aims to clarify the legal landscape for startups, ensuring that they can thrive without the fear of unexpected taxation.