DR Congo EV Import Requirements 2025: How to Legally Import Your EV

Importing an electric vehicle (EV) into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2025 is easier than ever, thanks to new tax exemptions and streamlined processes. Fully electric vehicles now qualify for 100% VAT and customs duty exemptions, making them more affordable for importers. However, compliance with updated regulations is critical to avoid fines or delays. Here’s what you need to know:

Mandatory Pre-shipment Inspections: Required for vehicles valued at $2,500 or more, handled by Bureau Veritas (BIVAC) at 0.75% of the FOB value.
Key Documents: Include a commercial invoice, vehicle inspection certificate, import license, and certificate of origin. All documents must be in French.
Customs Process: Use the GUICE electronic platform for pre-clearance. Fees include a 2% OCC charge and other minor costs.
Age Limits: EVs must be under 10 years old (7 years for larger vans or buses).
Safety Standards: Vehicles must meet EU-aligned technical requirements.

To simplify the process, platforms like EV24.africa offer end-to-end services, from sourcing to customs clearance. Fully electric vehicles are now a cost-effective option, but careful planning and adherence to rules are essential for a smooth import experience.

DR Congo EV Import Rules for 2025

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has established a detailed legal framework for importing electric vehicles (EVs). This framework involves multiple government agencies, and non-compliance can lead to severe consequences, such as vehicle confiscation.

For vehicles valued at $2,500 or more, pre-shipment inspections are mandatory, and all required documentation must be submitted in French.

New Policy Changes in 2025

As of 2025, the DRC has introduced major changes to encourage EV adoption:

100% electric vehicles are now fully exempt from VAT and customs duties.
Import duties on other types of vehicles have been reduced.
The Ministry of the Economy has also waived internal taxes to further promote EV use.

Meanwhile, the suspension of cobalt exports, which began in February and extended through September, has driven cobalt prices up to around $17.50 per pound. This has had a ripple effect on the global EV supply chain. Notably, the DRC accounted for 76% of the world’s cobalt mine production in 2024.

"The decision has been taken to extend the temporary suspension due to the continued high level of stock on the market."

Authority for the Regulation and Control of Strategic Mineral Substances’ Markets (ARECOMS)

Although this suspension doesn’t directly impact vehicle imports, it highlights the economic factors influencing EV prices and availability. Congolese authorities are now considering introducing export quotas for cobalt once the ban is lifted.

Government Agencies That Handle EV Imports

Several agencies play critical roles in managing EV imports into the DRC:

Direction Générale des Douanes et Accises (DGDA): This is the DRC’s Customs Authority, responsible for assessing and collecting tariffs and duties on imported vehicles.
Congolese Office of Standards: Oversees imports by charging 2% of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value for vehicles over $2,500, plus an additional $5 per ton.
Bureau Veritas (BIVAC): Handles pre-shipment inspections for imports valued at $2,500 or more. Their service fee is 0.75% of the FOB (Free on Board) value of the imported goods.

Other entities involved in the process include the Industrial Incentive Fund (FPI), Office of Maritime Freight Management (OGEFREM), National Office of Transportation (ONATRA), the Tax Authority (DGI), and the General Directorate for Revenue Administration (DGRAD).

To streamline the process, the GUICE electronic platform has been introduced to facilitate pre-customs clearances for imports, exports, and transit of goods from pilot sites. Familiarity with this platform is key to ensuring smooth and efficient import procedures.

Understanding the roles of these agencies and the associated fees is essential for proper documentation and financial planning. These regulatory requirements lay the foundation for the detailed pre-shipping and documentation processes discussed in the next section.

Documents and Pre-Shipping Steps

Getting all your paperwork in order is a must for a hassle-free EV import to DR Congo. The country has strict rules when it comes to documentation, and any errors or missing documents could result in delays and extra costs.

Required Documents

Before shipping your electric vehicle, DR Congo requires a detailed set of documents, including:

Original Car Registration Document or a Legal Copy
Conveyance Certificate
Original Vehicle Inspection Certificate or a Legal Copy from the Country of Origin
Commercial Invoice
Packing Lists
Transportation Documents (Bill of Lading or Air Waybill)
Import License
Pro Forma Invoice
U.S. Shipper’s Export Declaration (if applicable)
Insurance Certificate
Certificate of Origin

Since French is the official language in DR Congo, translating these documents early is a smart move. Using a certified translator who understands automotive and customs terminology can save you from potential delays caused by inaccuracies.

Once your paperwork is complete, the next step is a mandatory pre-shipment inspection to ensure everything checks out.

Pre-Shipping Inspection Rules

As of June 29, 2025, DR Congo mandates pre-shipment inspections for all imported goods. This requirement was introduced following a circular issued on May 27 and formalized during a June 24 session involving importers, Bureau Veritas, the Congolese Control Office (OCC), and the Single Window for Foreign Trade (GUICE), as noted by the Federation of Congolese Enterprises.

For vehicles valued at $2,500 or more, Bureau Veritas oversees these inspections. The process must occur at the supplier’s warehouse before the EV is shipped to DR Congo. This ensures compliance is verified ahead of time rather than at the port of entry.

The inspection covers several key areas, including quality, quantity, price, and compliance with the terms of sale. Inspectors will confirm that your EV matches the details in your paperwork, assess its condition, and ensure it meets the technical standards required for import.

To begin the inspection process, submit your request online through the Verigates platform. You’ll need to provide a detailed invoice describing your EV and a statement agreeing to the inspection requirements.

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a Verification Certificate (AV), which is essential for customs clearance. Without this certificate, your EV won’t be allowed into DR Congo. If the vehicle doesn’t pass inspection, the certificate will not be issued, and you’ll need to make the necessary repairs before proceeding.

The inspection service fee, handled by BIVAC, is 0.75% of your EV’s Free on Board (FOB) value.

There are a few exceptions to these rules. Vehicles valued below $2,500 are exempt from the pre-shipment inspection requirement. Additionally, personal property, including motor vehicles brought in by DR Congo residents returning home, may also qualify for exemptions.

Timing is everything here. Since the inspection process – from scheduling to receiving the certificate – can take weeks, build this into your overall import timeline. This will help you avoid unexpected delays and extra storage fees.

These steps for documentation and inspection are non-negotiable. They’re designed to ensure compliance with DR Congo’s regulations and to make the import process go as smoothly as possible.

Customs Process, Taxes, and Costs

When your EV arrives in DR Congo, navigating the customs process requires precision and adherence to regulations. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding the costs can save you from unnecessary delays.

Customs Steps When Your EV Arrives

Customs clearance in DR Congo operates through the GUICE (Single Window for Foreign Trade) electronic platform. To get started, you’ll need a pre-shipment validation certificate along with key documents such as the supplier’s invoice, bill of lading, container count, import license, and verified EV quantity. Missing any of these can result in customs rejecting your application.

The Congolese Control Office (OCC) and the General Directorate of Customs and Excise (DGDA) oversee the clearance process. Customs officials will verify that the EV matches the details provided in the validation certificate. The CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value is fixed once validated.

After clearing customs, you’ll need to review the associated fees and any applicable exemptions.

Import Taxes and Fees

Importing an EV into DR Congo involves several mandatory charges:

OCC charges: 2% of the Free on Board (FOB) value
BIVAC inspection fee: 0.75% of the FOB value
Average vehicle tariff: 10.16% across all vehicle types

To encourage EV adoption, the government has introduced full VAT and customs duty exemptions for 100% electric vehicles. Additionally, the Ministry of the Economy has announced reductions in import duties and internal taxes for traditional, hybrid, and electric vehicles.

Here’s an example:
For a $35,000 EV:

OCC fee: $700 (2% of FOB)
BIVAC fee: $262.50 (0.75% of FOB)
Total fees: $962.50 (with full VAT and customs duty exemptions for 100% EVs)

These exemptions are strictly for fully electric vehicles. Hybrid vehicles may receive partial reductions but won’t qualify for the complete exemption. To claim these benefits, ensure your documentation clearly identifies the vehicle as fully electric.

For EVs valued under $2,500, pre-shipment inspection isn’t required, which means the BIVAC fee is waived. Additionally, DR Congo residents returning home with personal vehicles may qualify for extra exemptions.

To take advantage of these benefits, ensure your vehicle complies with all technical standards and that your paperwork is in perfect order.

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Safety Standards and Technical Rules

Before importing an electric vehicle (EV) into DR Congo, it must meet specific technical and safety standards. Following these guidelines can help avoid unnecessary delays.

Technical and Safety Requirements

DR Congo aligns its type approval standards with those of the EU, with oversight provided by the Autorité de Régulation de la Poste et des Télécommunications du Congo (ARPTC) in Kinshasa. To secure type approval, you’ll need a local representative registered with ARPTC. For instance, IB-Lenhardt AG works with local partners in Kinshasa to issue product conformity certifications. As their team explains:

"Our competent and professional team is surely ready to support you to identify applicable requirements for your specific product or technology feature to comply with current regulations in safety, EMC, wireless, etc."

The type approval process typically takes around 11 weeks, and certifications remain valid for 24 to 60 months, depending on the EV’s technology.

Additionally, if your EV is valued at $2,500 or more, BIVAC conducts inspections to verify quality, quantity, and compliance. Detailed pre-shipment inspection requirements can be found in the Documents section.

Lastly, ensure your EV meets the age and model restrictions outlined below to qualify for importation.

Vehicle Age & Model Limits

To maintain quality standards, DR Congo enforces age limits on imported vehicles under Decree #12/041. Here’s a summary of these restrictions:

Vehicle Type	Age Limit (Years)
Second-hand cars or buses (<10 seats)	10
Second-hand vans or buses (>10 seats)	7
Second-hand lorries	10

For passenger EVs, the age limit is 10 years from the date of first registration, while EV vans carrying more than 10 passengers must not exceed 7 years. Importantly, EVs less than 6 months old from their first registration date are not exempt from pre-shipment inspections, even if they meet the age criteria.

Failing to comply with these age limits can lead to severe consequences. As one source cautions:

"When importing used vehicles, it is necessary to comply with this decree. Or else, the cars will be damaged or reexported at cargo expenses."

Step-by-Step Import Guide and Tips

Bringing an electric vehicle (EV) into DR Congo takes careful planning and attention to detail. By following the right steps, you can save time, avoid unnecessary costs, and ensure your EV arrives legally and in good condition. Here’s a breakdown of the process to help you navigate each stage smoothly.

Complete Import Process Steps

The journey of importing an EV begins with selecting your preferred vehicle and concludes with its registration in DR Congo. EV24.africa simplifies this entire process, offering services under Incoterms like Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) and Free on Board (FOB). This approach takes much of the burden off buyers, making the process far more manageable.

Start by choosing your EV from EV24.africa’s extensive inventory, which includes certified new and used models from Europe, Asia (China), North America, and Japan. The platform provides detailed specifications and clear pricing, making it easier to compare options and make an informed decision.

Once you’ve made your selection, gather the necessary paperwork. All documents must be in French. These include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, import license (issued by an authorized commercial bank), pro forma invoice, insurance certificate, and certificate of origin.

Next, decide on a shipping method. Options include Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) or container shipping, with delivery choices ranging from port-to-port to door-to-door. EV24.africa primarily uses the Port of Matadi as the main entry point for vehicle imports and offers delivery across DR Congo.

For customs clearance, you’ll use the GUICE platform, an electronic system designed to streamline pre-customs processing and reduce delays at pilot sites.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Importing a vehicle can get tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for and tips to avoid them:

Documentation errors: Even small mistakes in your paperwork can lead to delays or extra costs. Make sure your commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading accurately describe the vehicle, its value, and all parties involved. Using the correct Harmonized System (HS) codes and paying the right duties and taxes will help you avoid penalties and customs holds.
Skipping experienced freight forwarders: Navigating Congolese customs can be complex. Partnering with a knowledgeable freight forwarder can save you time and money by ensuring smooth cargo clearance and inland transportation.
Overlooking the Cargo Tracking Note (CTN): Also called the Bordereau de Suivi de Cargaison (BSC), this document is mandatory for shipments to the Republic of Congo. The CTN costs $275 plus an administration fee, and not having it can cause costly delays.

How EV24.africa Makes Importing Easier

EV24.africa

With a team of over 200 professionals across five African countries and partnerships in more than 40 nations, EV24.africa offers unmatched expertise to guide you through the import process.

The platform takes care of customs-related tasks, including clearance, registration, and payment of import taxes, ensuring full compliance with local regulations. This comprehensive service eliminates the need for you to juggle multiple providers or navigate bureaucratic red tape on your own.

EV24.africa also offers a wide selection of EVs, from passenger cars to light commercial vehicles. This extensive inventory means you’ll have more options to choose from, shorter waiting times, and competitive prices thanks to their established supplier relationships.

Another benefit is their ability to help you take advantage of government incentives. DR Congo offers tax breaks like VAT and customs duty exemptions for 100% electric vehicles. EV24.africa ensures all the necessary documentation is correctly handled so you can qualify for these savings.

For hassle-free customs processing, consider using their Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) service. This option shifts all import responsibilities to EV24.africa, giving you predictable costs and peace of mind.

Lastly, EV24.africa’s logistics network includes real-time tracking tools offered by freight forwarders, shipping lines, or courier services. These tools let you monitor your vehicle’s progress and plan for its arrival and registration efficiently.

Conclusion

Bringing an electric vehicle (EV) into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2025 requires careful attention to documentation, customs procedures, and local regulations. Key steps include assembling the necessary paperwork, understanding tax obligations, and adhering to technical and safety standards. One major advantage is that fully electric vehicles enjoy exemptions from VAT and customs duties, making them an attractive option for importers.

The DRC’s open investment policies allow foreign investors to operate under the same conditions as local businesses, creating opportunities for international EV buyers. However, navigating the intricate customs and regulatory landscape can be challenging. Recent inspections in September 2023 revealed widespread non-compliance across various sectors, with annual losses estimated at $8.5 billion for the country. These findings highlight the importance of efficient and reliable import services.

For a smoother import experience, expert assistance can make all the difference. Platforms like EV24.africa handle the entire process – from sourcing to shipping, customs clearance, and registration – ensuring compliance with all import requirements. As Axel Peyriere, Co-Founder and CEO of EV24.africa, puts it:

"Africa is ready for electric vehicles, and EV24.africa is committed to making this transition smooth and accessible. Our goal is to provide a reliable, transparent, and competitive marketplace for EV buyers across the continent."

Whether you’re importing a single EV or planning a larger fleet, expert guidance can save you time, money, and headaches. With tax incentives currently in place, now is an opportune moment to embrace electric mobility in the DRC, making the process not only manageable but also highly rewarding.

FAQs

What steps should I follow to complete customs pre-clearance for my electric vehicle using the GUICE platform in DR Congo?

To complete customs pre-clearance for your electric vehicle in DR Congo using the GUICE platform, here’s what you need to do:

Log in to the GUICE platform using your credentials.
Navigate to the Pré-dédouanement section to begin the pre-clearance process.
Upload and arrange all the required documents, including any necessary authorization requests.
Make sure your browser is up-to-date and that JavaScript is enabled to ensure everything runs smoothly.

The GUICE platform streamlines the customs process by centralizing all the documentation and approvals in one place, making it easier to manage importation. If you run into trouble logging in, you can reset your password directly through the platform.

How will the temporary cobalt export ban in DR Congo affect the electric vehicle market, and what should importers know?

The halt in cobalt exports from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) is expected to tighten global supply, leading to higher prices and adding a layer of uncertainty to the electric vehicle (EV) battery market. For manufacturers, this could mean rising production costs and possible delays.

For importers, it’s crucial to stay updated on this development, as cobalt is a key component in EV batteries. To reduce risks, consider options like broadening your supplier base, stocking up on inventory in advance, and keeping a close eye on market trends. Careful planning during this time will be critical to managing potential disruptions effectively.

What are the consequences of not following DR Congo’s EV import rules, and how can you make sure your import process is fully compliant?

Failing to meet the electric vehicle (EV) import regulations in DR Congo could result in hefty fines, the suspension of your import license, or even legal consequences for serious infractions. To steer clear of these risks, here’s what you should focus on:

Gather all necessary documentation: This includes invoices, certificates of origin, and compliance reports to meet regulatory requirements.
Adhere to customs procedures: Make sure all taxes and duties are paid accurately and on time to avoid delays or penalties.
Keep up-to-date with policy changes: Regularly check for updates on import regulations and standards to stay compliant.

Being thorough and well-prepared can save you from costly mistakes and ensure a smooth import process.