DR Congo to require commercial cash payments in Congolese francs from 2027
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Le Potentiel
From 9 April 2027, commercial cash payments in the Democratic Republic of the Congo will have to be made in Congolese francs, while foreign currencies will remain permitted through banks and approved electronic means. Governor André Wameso said that holding dollars would remain legal, according to the Central Bank of the Congo.
From 9 April 2027, commercial cash payments in the Democratic Republic of the Congo will have to be made in Congolese francs, Central Bank of the Congo (BCC) Governor André Wameso announced on Friday 30 October in a video published on the institution’s X account. Payments in foreign currencies will remain possible through banks and approved electronic means.
The measure will not make it illegal for individuals to hold foreign currencies, André Wameso said. In shops, supermarkets and restaurants, customers will have to pay in Congolese francs, even if prices are displayed in US dollars.
The reform aims to regulate the use of foreign currencies in commercial transactions and strengthen the role of the Congolese franc, according to the governor. It follows the DRC’s preparation of a foreign exchange reform intended to capture more mining revenue, announced on 13 October.
