DRC Wheelchair Import Regulations: Tariffs, Compliance, and Distribution Best Practices

1. DRC Wheelchair Tariff Structure & HS Code Implementation

Key Updates (2025):

• Manual wheelchairs fall under HS Code 8713.10 which includes a 15% base duty and an additional 18% VAT.

• The HS Code 8713.20 pertains to motorized wheelchairs which face a 20% base duty and an 18% VAT rate.

• Wheelchairs designated as “humanitarian aid” receive duty reductions if they hold a Ministry of Health certification.

Cost Optimization Strategies:

• Wheelchair components should be imported under HS 8714.99 with a 12% duty rate and then assembled locally.

• Utilize COMESA trade preferences to import Chinese-origin components under bilateral agreements.

• Businesses can recover between 40% and 60% of paid import duties when they re-export goods to neighboring countries.

2. Customs Clearance Documentation Master Checklist

Required Paperwork:

1. Commercial Invoice (French/English bilingual)

2. Certificate of Origin (CCPIT-notarized)

3. DRC Import License (Issued by ARMP)

4. SONACOQ Certificate of Conformity

5. Proforma Invoice with INCOTERM 2025

6. Packing List with Gross/Net Weight

Critical Compliance Notes:

• Only documents featuring wet-ink signatures are accepted at Pointe-Noire Port because digital signatures do not meet their submission requirements.

• Declare values in Franc Congolais (CDF) to prevent disputes over currency conversion.

• All motorized wheelchair batteries should have tracking numbers similar to IMEI codes.

3. Localization Mandates for Wheelchair Distribution

Labeling Requirements:

• The French label requires validation from the Ministry of Commerce within a 72-hour timeframe.

• Braille Addendum: Mandatory for pediatric wheelchairs

• The models of lithium batteries need labels that warn to store them below 30°C.

Technical Adaptations:

• Voltage Conversion: Modify chargers to 220V/50Hz standard

• The wheelchair frames require reinforcement to withstand laterite road conditions.

• At least 20% of gears/castors in inventory must be sourced locally.

Certification Process:

1. Pre-shipment inspection by Bureau Veritas

2. 45-day product registration with ARSER

3. Post-market surveillance reporting every 6 months

Conclusión

Effective wheelchair import operations in DRC demand exact conformity with changing localization laws and smart tariff optimization strategies. Medical equipment distributors can achieve 98% customs clearance efficiency and reduce landed costs by up to 34% through modular assembly strategies together with meticulous document preparation and climate-adaptive product modifications.