Burundi and Democratic Republic of Congo chambers of commerce met on Tuesday in Bukavu (DRC) in efforts to boost the trade between the two countries.
Business operators from both countries called for the formation of the commission that will investigate the trade barriers that is hindering the smooth running of business between the two countries.
According to OKAPI radio station one of the local media in DRC, the governor of South Kivu and other authorities from Burundi government took part in the meeting.
“Everyone has an interest in having a good restoration of business relations between the two countries,” said Joyeux Bahidika the Chairperson of the Federation of Congo Enterprises (FEC) of South Kivu.
“There are always harassment at all levels. We are looking at how to put an end to this so that business is done smoothly,” said Mr. Joyeux.
As for the Chairman of Burundi’s Chamber of Commerce (CFCIB) the meeting will increase the trade volume between the DRC and Burundi, “especially after a period of crisis that has affected the two neighboring countries,”said Mr. Suguru.
The CFCIB Chairman said that since 2015 Burundi experienced a socio-political crisis and coupled with Covid-19 related restrictions that saw a slowdown in business operations between the two countries.
“So this is an opportunity to revitalize and reconnect,” said Olivier Suguru.
He nevertheless highlighted the presence of the Non-tariff barriers that have made doing business cumbersome.
“We plan to set up a joint monitoring committee to implement without delay the removal of the Non-Tariff Barriers,” said Olivier Suguru.
DRC is one of the biggest markets for Burundi with more than than 60 percent of Burundian exports are imported by DRC.
