Félix Tshisekedi calls for restraint in mining sector tax collection
In a strategic shift to bolster investor confidence, President Félix Tshisekedi has directed Congo’s tax authorities to dial back aggressive fiscal enforcement against mining companies. The move aims to prevent practices that could undermine the country’s appeal as a prime destination for foreign investment in critical minerals.
As the world’s top cobalt producer and Africa’s second-largest copper exporter, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) relies heavily on revenue from these two minerals. However, repeated bank account seizures, asset freezes, and unpredictable tax measures have raised concerns among mining operators. The president has criticized these tactics, warning they inflate operational costs, erode sector competitiveness, and risk deterring much-needed foreign capital.
Prioritizing dialogue over coercion
The head of state has tasked the Ministries of Economy, Finance, and Mines, along with tax agencies, to ensure that any recovery actions are grounded in clear legal frameworks and reserved for exceptional circumstances. He emphasized leveraging existing dialogue mechanisms, advance notifications, and conciliation processes outlined in Congolese law to resolve disputes before resorting to enforcement.
Speaking before government officials, President Tshisekedi outlined a vision for a “competitive and transparent mining sector,” built on legal stability, predictable administrative actions, and sustained collaboration between state authorities and economic operators.
Addressing ongoing disputes with major miners
These directives follow heightened tensions between Kinshasa and several multinational mining firms. Last year, the Inspectorate General of Finances (IGF) alleged that major players—including Chinese firm CMOC and Swiss trader Glencore—had underreported billions in revenue, shortchanging state development funds. Both companies denied the allegations.
Just days before the president’s announcement, Congolese tax authorities shuttered Glencore’s local offices amid a tax dispute. The Swiss group has since reiterated its commitment to engaging with authorities while denying any wrongdoing. The timing of the president’s instructions in relation to this case remains unclear, as the presidency has not yet commented on the matter.
In a separate directive, President Tshisekedi also ordered the immediate withdrawal of soldiers and police officers illegally stationed at mining sites. He argued that such deployments foster fraud, smuggling, and insecurity while damaging the DRC’s reputation among foreign investors.