Cryptocurrency in Congo (DRC)

    As digital currencies gain ground, people in Congo are more eager to use Bitcoin, Ethereum and USDT as an alternative to usual banking and finance. Crypto activity still takes place in Congo, since local rules do not exist and users access it mainly through the internet. The use of mobile money and DeFi tools is growing among traders in the region.

    Cryptocurrency gives Congolese people the chance to protect their money, access world markets and improve the speed of payments. The promising future of crypto in Africa could be found in Congo, whose population is young and uses more digital tools.

    This guide is most suited for traders, entrepreneurs working in fintech, regulatory bodies and researchers in digital assets from the region.

    Crypto in Congo—The Current Scene

    The use of cryptocurrency is increasing in Congo, mostly among youth who are tech-savvy and use their mobile devices first. Where it is hard to use bank accounts, crypto has made it possible for people to handle their daily business, pay across borders and save money. More users are choosing Bitcoin and Ethereum to store their wealth and they also use stablecoins like USDT and USDC to protect their assets in the market.

    People like Binance P2P and Paxful P2P exchanges since they allow payments via mobile money. Platforms of this kind give users the ability to trade crypto directly instead of having to go through a middleman. Since international exchanges such as Bitget, Kraken and Coinbase serve users from Congo, more residents have the chance to access the cryptocurrency market because of the infrastructure difficulties.

    People in the Congo rely on mobile money to connect their use of CDF with trading in cryptocurrencies. Because more people in Congo have smartphones and are using digital education. Crypto is gaining more awareness and being used in both urban and semi-urban areas.

    Key Timeline of Crypto Developments in Congo

    2019: The government issued notices warning everyone of the possible dangers of cryptocurrency. Nevertheless, people are still engaged in informal trading more and more.

    2021: More people learned about cryptocurrency due to the strong growth in peer-to-peer transactions and the entry of significant exchanges into the market for Congolese users.

    2023: Central bankers began examining the effects of cryptocurrencies on money flows and financial policy risks.

    2024: Stakeholders started to take part and private companies promoting blockchain in the finance industry requested sandbox experiments.

    2025: Relevant departments will keep assessing digital currency policies, largely focusing on shielding consumers, preventing money laundering and setting requirements for exchanges in the future.

    Congo’s Crypto Market Overview

    Mobile use and regular banking needs of the population have powered the strong growth of crypto in the Congo. Mostly, traders keep their savings in cryptocurrencies, use them as a hedge against inflation and find it cheaper to send remittances with these digital currencies than with standard financial service methods.

    Although Bitcoin and Ethereum are the prime digital assets used today, stablecoins like USDT, USDC and BUSD are being used more by companies. A lot of users are noticing decentralized finance (DeFi) and altcoins that allow them to start with less investment.

    The main platforms for exchanging are Binance, Coinbase, Kraken, Bitget and Gemini which operate internationally. Users get a quick start, access many trading tools and are able to connect to payment services through their mobile technology. Even so, it’s mostly informal marketplaces and one-to-one arrangements that provide the option to exchange fiat for cryptocurrencies because there are few official exchanges.

    Startups in the fintech industry in these areas are starting to develop useful tools, like crypto-fiat bridges and mobile wallets. This technology is designed to improve the experience of users, encourage more people to use it and finally create platforms that are made for the special needs of the Congolese market.

    Regulation of Crypto in Congo

    Till June 2025, the Republic of Congo has not introduced any official policy regarding cryptocurrencies. Although people are free to buy and use digital currencies, crypto assets are not accepted as official money. There is still much uncertainty regarding rules, but talks and planning have begun.

    Currently, government authorities are trying to find ways to keep the sector open for growth. Matters being examined are AML compliance, the licensing of exchanges, processes for consumer protection and watching cross-border transactions.

    In Progress — Expected Regulatory Features:

    • Know-Your-Customer (KYC) compliance for local and international exchanges
    • Licensing guidelines for custodial and non-custodial wallet providers
    • AML/CFT policies aligned with international standards
    • Consideration of a regulatory sandbox for blockchain startups
    • Dialogue around CBDC and mobile money integration

    Although no firm laws have been enacted yet, it is clear that the government is beginning to take digital finance seriously. Traders are advised to stay updated with policy changes and consider working with platforms that already follow global compliance norms.

    List of Congo Crypto Exchanges & Platforms

    Congo currently lacks locally regulated crypto exchanges. However, Congolese users actively access international platforms that offer inclusive features and mobile compatibility.

    Popular Global Platforms Used in Congo:

    • Binance: Offers P2P trading, high liquidity, and a wide selection of cryptocurrencies.
    • Bitget: Known for copy trading and futures trading with low fees.
    • Coinbase: Easy-to-use interface with strong regulatory compliance and educational tools.
    • Kraken: Offers advanced trading tools and Ethereum staking options.
    • Gemini: Highly secure exchange with SOC certifications and global access.

    Mobile money support and CDF trading pairs are increasingly being prioritized by global platforms targeting the African market. Local apps and informal OTC desks also assist with cash-to-crypto services, though they are unregulated.

    As demand increases, the emergence of Congolese-owned platforms that meet compliance standards could reshape the market and improve fiat integration, especially for mobile money users.

    Cryptocurrency Wallets in Congo

    Wallet usage in Congo is largely dominated by globally recognized apps. Trust Wallet and MetaMask are the most downloaded mobile wallets, offering compatibility with most Ethereum-based and multi-chain assets. Coinbase Wallet and Binance Wallet are also widely used.

    Long-term investors and high-volume traders rely on cold storage solutions such as Ledger Nano X and Trezor to secure their holdings offline. Hardware wallets protect funds from phishing, malware, and exchange hacks.

    It is still a worry that security will be compromised as more mobile devices are used. Many fake wallet apps, dangerous phishing links and airdrop scams are available online. Therefore, users must never ignore learning basic wallet care - such as holding private keys safely, saving their seed phrase offline and always updating their wallet apps.

    More businesses are emerging in the local wallet sector, servicing the country with region-specific help for converting Congolese francs. They might be very useful in promoting crypto use among rural and underprivileged people.

    The Taxation of Cryptocurrency in Congo

    At present, cryptocurrencies are neither mentioned nor regulated by any tax law in Congo. There is no formal taxation for those who handle crypto in trading and business. Still, the authorities at the Ministry of Finance are currently reconsidering the country’s future tax structure.

    What Future Tax Rules Might Include:

    • Capital Gains Tax: Applied to profits from buying and selling digital assets.
    • Income Tax: Applicable to earnings from staking, mining, airdrops, and DeFi participation.
    • Corporate Reporting: Businesses that receive crypto payments may be required to declare transactions.
    • Exchange Obligations: Licensed platforms may be required to report user activity to tax agencies.

    As crypto activity increases, a legal framework for taxation is likely to emerge. In the meantime, it is advisable for Congolese traders to keep records of their trades, earnings, and wallet activity for transparency and future compliance.

    Crypto Community & Education in Congo

    Congo’s crypto users are increasing thanks to discussions on the internet, social media and group learning sessions. Telegram channels and WhatsApp groups are quite lively, sharing live updates, lessons and offering assistance to others.

    Those coming across blockchain in their curriculum include programmers, who have banded together to explore smart contracts, NFTs and apps that run without central authorities. Events where Congolese users can gather are providing more information on how blockchain is used in the financial, health and logistics sectors.

    Since formal education is not yet widespread, a number of NGOs and fintech hubs are starting bootcamps and workshops focused on developers and entrepreneurs. Helping people be digitally literate helps protect them from crypto fraud as well as encourages safer trading.

    The Future of Cryptocurrency in Congo

    The Congo is gradually taking a major role in the crypto world of Africa. Because mobile phones are used more often by the youth and interest in digital finance is growing among Congolese leaders, cryptocurrencies are likely to find a place in the country.

    What Legal Frameworks Could Enable:

    • Licensing and regulation of exchanges and wallet providers
    • Tax compliance and clarity on crypto earnings
    • Partnerships between fintechs and telecoms for mobile money integration
    • CBDC exploration and financial inclusion policies

    With effective regulation and local innovation, Congo could build a sustainable crypto economy that supports remittances, savings, investment, and cross-border trade.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    1. Is crypto allowed in Congo in 2025?

    Yes. The industry is recognized as legal, even though there are no regulations. Those who wish to trade should exercise care and stick to reliable websites.

    2. Are there any methods to buy Bitcoin using mobile money in Congo?

    Yes. You can use Airtel Money or M-Pesa to deposit onto CDF and buy cryptocurrencies from many exchanges.

    3. Is it necessary to pay taxes on profits earned from crypto trading in Congo?

    We do not have that information right now. Nonetheless, authorities may create new policies to collect taxes on digital asset proceeds.

    4. Does the government penalize people who use cryptocurrency?

    There are no consequences at the moment, yet users should pay attention to possible changes in laws.

    5. How can crypto storage in Congo be made safe?

    Choose to use hardware wallets or mobile wallets that are secure and have proper backup options.

    6. Is there a crypto exchange station in Congo?

    There are no domestic exchanges that have gained licenses so far. People involved in trading make use of online markets and P2P services.

    7. Which cryptocurrencies are the most popular in Congo?

    Cryptocurrency such as - Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Tether (USDT) and Binance Coin (BNB) are widely known cryptocurrencies in Congo.

    8. Is the Congo considering making a Central Bank Digital Currency?

    There has not been a formal statement about CBDCs, but talks in Asia and the Pacific about digital currencies are underway.

    9. Are there any deceptive activities in the crypto sector here?

    Yes. A lot of people experience scams, phishing and fake investment offers. Lessons on prevention can help a lot.

    10. Is it possible for Congolese startups to gain funding using crypto?

    Yes. A lot of startups secure funds using stablecoins, but having rules in place would make things safer and more legitimate.