Most of the country's trade barriers result from complex regulations, a multiplicity of overlapping administrative agencies, and a frequent lack of professionalism and control by officials responsible for regulatory enforcement. Required signatures are often difficult to obtain, and regulations are complex and poorly codified. Application of regulations varies widely across the country. Corruption is endemic, and it is common in commercial matters to require protracted negotiations with numerous officials. The government promulgated anti-corruption legislation, but enforcement is virtually non-existent.
U.S. traders and investors also face the general impediments that affect all economic activity in the DRC, including a collapsed infrastructure, lack of public services, an ineffectual judicial system and other obstacles, as described in Chapter 1 (Market Challenges.)
Prohibited and Restricted Imports
Firearms, ammunition, water hyacinths, and pornographic materials are prohibited commercial imports.
Import Documentation
In 2006 French company BIVAC International became the authorized agent of the Democratic republic of Congo for pre-shipment inspection of imported goods valued at USD 2,500 or more. Exporters have to give BIVAC an invoice containing a detailed description of the goods to be shipped and a statement accepting inspection. The OCC, through BIVAC, verifies the quantity, quality, and price of imported goods without a pre-shipment inspection certificate and charges 40% of the FOB value. All import documents must be in French. Other required documents are a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading (air way bill), import license, pro forma invoice, the U.S. shipper's export declaration, an insurance certificate, and (in necessary) a certificate of origin, terminal handling receipts.
Import Tariffs
The Democratic republic of Congo adopted a harmonized system of tariff classification in 1998. The overwhelming majority of tariffs is ad valorem and has CIF (Costs and Insurance Freight) foundation. The country’s tariff rates are the next: 5% for heavy equipment, industrial raw materials, agricultural and veterinary supplies and unassembled outfit; 15% for light equipment, spare parts, goods for social needs (e.g., for hospitals and invalids), 20% for products competing with locally manufactured products in short supply (e.g.,tires and textiles); and 30% for products competing with locally manufactured goods in adequate supply and luxury products. In addition, OCC, the import-export control authority, charges a 1.5 % tax on all imports.
Labeling/Marking
The DRC used to have requirements for any machine, box, or other object used in the manufacture or packing of food products, but these seems to be no longer in force. There are no specific packing regulations; shippers should follow international norms. Goods should be securely packed to withstand excessive tropical heat, moisture, pests, rough handling, pilferage, and delays. IATA (International Air Transport Association), ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization), and U.S. regulations should be followed in the labeling, packing, and shipment of any hazardous or restricted materials. | 
