Classification
Product TypeProcessed Food
Product FormShelf-stable (canned/aseptic)
Industry PositionProcessed Food Product
Market
Tomato puree/paste (HS 200290) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is primarily an import-supplied, shelf-stable staple used as a cooking ingredient. UN Comtrade data (via World Bank WITS) shows reported imports of tomatoes preserved otherwise than by vinegar/acetic acid (HS 200290) of about USD 12.7 million in 2023, with China as the dominant origin by value and volume. Market access and continuity of supply are sensitive to import clearance and conformity controls, with DGDA responsible for customs administration and the Office Congolais de Contrôle (OCC) responsible for quality/quantity/conformity controls at import and export. Distribution is mainly through traditional retail (kiosks/open markets), alongside an expanding modern retail footprint in major cities (e.g., Kinshasa).
Market RoleImport-dependent consumer market (net importer) with negligible export volumes
Market GrowthNot Mentioned
SeasonalityYear-round availability; supply is driven more by import logistics than local harvest seasonality.
Specification
Physical Attributes- Homogeneous texture, characteristic tomato flavor/odor, and fairly good red color are Codex quality criteria.
Compositional Metrics- Codex designation by natural total soluble solids (without added salt): Tomato Puree ≥7% and <24%; Tomato Paste ≥24%.
- pH must be below 4.6 (Codex).
- Mineral impurities (sand/soil insoluble in HCl) limit is linked to soluble solids; mould count is set by retail-sale country legislation (Codex).
Grades- Label may declare the percentage of natural total soluble solids as a minimum or as a narrow range (Codex).
- If permitted added ingredients alter flavor, name should indicate 'flavoured with X' (Codex).
Packaging- Codex minimum fill guidance for retail containers: product should occupy at least 90% of container water capacity (minus necessary headspace).
- Non-retail containers should carry (on container or documents) product name, lot identification, and manufacturer/packer/distributor/importer identification (Codex).
Supply Chain
Value Chain- Foreign producer/packer → ocean/regional freight → DGDA customs clearance → OCC conformity/quality controls → importer/wholesaler distribution → traditional retail and modern supermarkets
Freight IntensityHigh
Transport ModeMultimodal
Risks
Security and Conflict HighRenewed and persistent armed conflict in eastern DRC (notably North Kivu/Ituri and surrounding areas) can severely disrupt inland distribution corridors, increase loss/theft risk, and interrupt commercial deliveries of imported shelf-stable foods.Route-plan with security intelligence; prioritize contracted, vetted transport; maintain buffer stocks in major consumption hubs; diversify distribution nodes to reduce single-corridor dependence.
Logistics MediumTomato puree/paste supply is import-reliant and freight-intensive; ocean freight and inland transport volatility can materially change landed cost and availability, especially when sourcing is concentrated in a small set of origins.Diversify sourcing origins and regional suppliers where feasible; use forward planning for shipping/clearance; maintain safety stock for high-turn SKUs.
Regulatory Compliance MediumNon-conformity on composition/labeling (e.g., solids designation, pH expectations) or mismatches during OCC conformity checks can lead to delays, rework, or rejection costs.Align product spec and labeling to Codex CXS 57; run pre-shipment QA (including pH/solids verification); maintain complete documentation for DGDA and OCC processes.
Labor & Social- Operating and distributing goods in conflict-affected eastern provinces can create elevated duty-of-care and human-rights risk for transport and field staff.
FAQ
How does Codex distinguish tomato puree from tomato paste?Under Codex CXS 57-1981, tomato puree is a processed tomato concentrate with no less than 7% but less than 24% natural total soluble solids (measured without added salt), while tomato paste contains at least 24% natural total soluble solids.
Which agency in the DRC is mandated to control the quality and conformity of imported goods such as tomato puree/paste?The Office Congolais de Contrôle (OCC) states that it controls the quality, quantity and conformity of goods at import and export, including through physico-chemical and microbiological analyses.
What do trade statistics indicate about the DRC’s supply dependence for tomato puree/paste (HS 200290)?UN Comtrade data presented via World Bank WITS shows the DRC reporting substantial imports of HS 200290 in 2023, with China as the dominant source country and smaller volumes from a range of other origins.