UK-DRC Chamber of Commerce Launched to Boost Trade and Investment

KINSHASA, March 6, 2026 - The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the United Kingdom (UK) launched the UK-DRC Chamber of Commerce, a platform aimed at strengthening trade, investment, and sustainable development between the two countries. The launch coincided with a ministerial visit from the UK, highlighting the country’s commitment to long-term partnerships and high-quality investments in the DRC.

The Chamber of Commerce aims to bring Congolese and British businesses closer together, fostering partnerships that promote local value addition, skills transfer, and economic growth. Recent initiatives include a $25 million financing agreement to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and nearly £3 million to expand agricultural operations and strengthen climate resilience.

The DRC emphasized the importance of local processing of mineral resources to create quality jobs, develop technical skills, and ensure sustainable economic benefits for its population. Key requests made during the launch included establishing a direct London-Kinshasa air route and increasing the presence of British companies to support technology transfer and capacity building. The DRC also highlighted its access to global markets through trade agreements, including AGOA, UAE partnerships, EU Economic Partnership Agreements, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and upcoming agreements with China and India.

The Chamber plans to formalize its operational structure, expand membership, launch targeted business forums, and create regular networking opportunities between Congolese and British companies. The UK-DRC Chamber of Commerce is expected to accelerate trade, attract investment, create jobs, develop skills, and reinforce governance standards amid the DRC’s ongoing economic transformation.