Kinshasa, September 21, 2025 (Cemac-eco.Finance) – The Democratic Republic of Congo has eased restrictions on foreign labor, raising ceilings for expatriate workers across key industries. The reform, signed on August 5 by outgoing Employment Minister Ephraim Akwakwa, aligns labor rules with market realities and investor needs.

Under the new decree, agriculture, mining, construction, and manufacturing firms can now employ up to 6.5% foreign staff, compared with 2–2.5% previously. Banking, real estate, trade, transport, and ICT sectors are capped at 4%, while private employment agencies may employ up to 15% foreign workers.

Officials argue the move will address shortages of technical expertise, especially in mining, while safeguarding national employment. Companies violating quotas face penalties of up to one month in prison or a fine of 25,000 Congolese francs (USD 10).

The reform comes as the DRC experiences rapid growth, fueled by mining investments, infrastructure projects, and expanding financial services. Analysts say the new rules will improve business confidence while gradually strengthening local labor capacity.