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Money & duty free for Congo

Currency information: 

Franc Congolais (CDF) = 100 centimes. Owing to the precarious nature of the economy, the denominations of the currency are subject to rapid change.

Credit cards: 

The use of MasterCard and Visa is limited to Kinshasa's major hotels. Credit cards cannot be used to obtain cash advances at banks.

Travellers cheques: 

Not recommended. Commission fees are very high, and traveller's cheques are not accepted outside Kinshasa.

Banking hours: 

Mon-Fri 0800-1130.

Currency restriction: 

The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is limited to US$10,000 and the export of foreign currency is unlimited.

Currency exchange: 

Because of the parlous state of the economy, the only true repository of value is the US Dollar. Free circulation of foreign currencies is now allowed within the country. Note that purchase of airline tickets within the country can be made only with money exchanged officially.

The following items may be imported into Congo (Dem Rep) by persons over 18 years of age without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 227g of tobacco.
• One bottle of alcoholic beverage.
• A reasonable amount of perfume for personal use.
• Cameras if temporarily imported by tourists.

Note: Radios, audio equipment and gifts are subject to duty.

Banned imports: 

An import licence is required for arms and ammunition.

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