Summary
Cryptocurrency trading is legal but unregulated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The central bank (Banque Centrale du Congo) has issued warnings about crypto risks but hasn’t implemented specific regulations. Popular payment methods include mobile money transfers and bank transfers. The Congolese Franc (CDF) has limited direct crypto exchange pairs, leading most traders to use USD or USDT. Here are the best crypto exchanges in Democratic Republic of the Congo:
Best Crypto Exchanges in Democratic Republic of the Congo
Cryptocurrency trading in the Democratic Republic of the Congo requires platforms that support local payment methods and offer reliable security measures. The Congolese Franc (CDF) isn’t directly supported by major exchanges, so most traders use USD or USDT as intermediary currencies. Mobile money services like M-PESA and Orange Money serve as primary fiat on-ramps for many Congolese traders.
1. Binance
Users:
200m
Free Demo:
Mobile App:
Bonus:
$100
Cryptos:
400+
Leverage:
125x
Spot Fees:
0.1%
Futures Fees:
0.02%/0.05%
Pros
- Most comprehensive crypto exchange
- Most advanced features and products
- 24/7 customer support
- 400+ cryptocurrencies
- Reputable with over 200 million users
- Best liquidity
Cons
- Not beginner friendly
- Restricted in many regions due to regulations
- EU traders must use BNFCR for futures trading
Overview
Reaching over 200 million registered users in 2024, Binance is by far the largest crypto exchange in the world. The platform is incredibly comprehensive, offering crypto traders all the tools they need to make a profit in the crypto market.
With over 400 cryptocurrencies to trade, leverage of up to 125x, directly integrated charts from TradingView with tons of technical analysis tools, and many more features, Binance has secured its spot as one of the best crypto exchanges.
Binance offers a wide variety of products, including spot, margin, futures, and options trading, staking, lending, P2P, automated bot trading, copy trading, and even an NFT marketplace. It is safe to say that crypto geeks will find everything they are looking for on Binance.
The trading fees on Binance are very affordable. Binance charges 0.1% trading fees on the spot market (makers and takers alike), which is the industry standard. Where Binance excels is the futures market with fees of only 0.02% for makers and 0.05% for takers.
2. KuCoin
Users:
30m
Free Demo:
Mobile App:
Bonus
$10,500
Cryptos:
800+
Leverage:
125x
Spot Fees:
0.1%
Futures Fees:
0.02%/0.06%
Pros
- Beginner friendly
- 800+ supported crypto assets
- 125x leverage and deep liquidity
- 20+ fiat currencies
- Great 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Lacks advanced features
- Not the best liquidity
- Regulatory issues in the US
- Variable spot fees
Overview
Kucoin focuses on offering the best spot trading experience. With over 800 supported cryptos on the spot market, Kucoin is one of the most versatile crypto exchanges when it comes to supported assets. You can trade popular cryptos such as Bitcoin or Ethereum but also less-known cryptos and even meme coins. If you are on the hunt for new and shiny coins that are not popular yet, Kucoin might be your best shop.
Spot fees on Kucoin are relatively average, ranging from 0.1% to 0.32% based on the liquidity of the asset. Futures trading on Kucoin starts at a maker fee of 0.02% and a taker fee of 0.06%.
Kucoin has integrated and ready-to-use crypto grid trading bots to automate your income. You can set up grid bots based on several parameters to trade for you 24/7.
3. OKX
Users:
50m
Free Demo:
Mobile App:
Bonus:
$10
Cryptos:
350+
Leverage:
100x
Spot Fees:
0.14%/0.1%
Futures Fees:
0.01%/0.06%
Pros
- Highly efficient trading platform
- 350+ assets
- Free demo trading
- Fiat supported
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Not available in the US
- Not beginner-friendly
- Limitations and restrictions in Europe
OXK Overview
OKX is the third largest crypto exchange sorted by daily derivatives volume. This is no surprise since OKX’s focus lies in offering a high-efficiency leverage trading experience. While the UI is not necessarily beginner-friendly, it is one of the fastest and most reliable platforms we have come across.
Over 300 coins are supported on OKXs spot market while 250 contracts are available for futures trading with up to 100x leverage. What makes OKX stand out is its extensive liquidity which are without a doubt at the top of the game.
With low futures fees starting at 0.02% maker and 0.05% taker, OKX ensures a cost efficient derivatives trading environment. Spot trading fees however are on the more expensive side starting at 0.14% for makers and 0.23% for takers.
You can easily deposit funds using your credit/debit card. Additionally, you can deposit and withdraw fiat using your personal bank account, making OKX a reliable platform for on- and off-ramp funds.
4. Deepcoin
Users:
2M+
Free Demo:
Mobile App:
Bonus:
Upto $600
Cryptos:
113+
Leverage:
125X
Spot Fees:
0.10%/0.10%
Futures Fees:
0.04%/0.06%
Pros
- Low trading fees
- Up to 125x leverage on derivatives and perpetuals
- Beginner-friendly platform
- Adequate security
- Advanced trading tools
Cons
- No proof of reserves
- No demo trading
- Geographical restrictions
Deepcoin Overview
Deepcoin is a cryptocurrency exchange serving over 2 million users globally, offering spot and futures trading with competitive fee structures. The platform supports more than 113 cryptocurrencies for trading operations.
The exchange implements a maker/taker fee model for spot trading at 0.1%/0.1%, while futures trading fees are set at 0.04%/0.06%. Deepcoin offers futures trading with leverage up to 125x, enabling traders to maximize potential returns through advanced positions.
Security measures include multi-signature wallets and risk control systems. The platform requires no KYC verification for basic trading functions, allowing users to maintain privacy while trading. Deepcoin provides a mobile application for both iOS and Android devices, ensuring trading accessibility across multiple devices.
The exchange incorporates copy trading functionality, allowing users to replicate successful trading strategies. Advanced trading tools include detailed charting capabilities, multiple order types, and real-time market data.
Current promotional offerings include a $600 bonus for new users, though terms and conditions apply. The platform’s interface is designed for accessibility, making it suitable for both novice and experienced traders.
Notable limitations include the absence of proof of reserves, which may concern security-focused users. The platform does not offer demo trading accounts for practice purposes. Additionally, certain geographical restrictions apply, limiting access in specific jurisdictions.
5. BYDFi
Users:
5m
Free Demo:
Mobile App:
Bonus:
$2,888
Cryptos:
600+
Leverage:
200x
Spot Fees:
0%/0.1%
Futures Fees:
0.02%/0.06%
Pros
- 0% Spot maker fees
- Very beginner friendly
- US and Canada supported
- 24/7 customer support
- 600+ cryptocurrencies
Cons
- No copy trading
- Lacks advanced features like hedge mode
Overview
BYDFi has become one of the most popular crypto exchanges due to its user-friendly design, low fees, and wide variety of 600 supported cryptos.
With a strong emphasis on accessibility, BYDFi offers its services to over 160 countries from all around the world. Some of these services include spot and futures trading, bot trading, and earning. For futures traders, BYDFi offers leverage of up to 200x, making it a great platform for seasoned professionals.
The intuitive interface, quick response time, and tons of advanced features make BYDFi a top-notch crypto exchange. If you are trading from the go, you can download the BYDFi mobile app from the iOS AppStore and Android PlayStore.
BYDFi charges the industry standard of 0.1% maker and taker fees on the spot market. If you want to enjoy lower fees, we recommend using the BYDFi futures market with fees of only 0.02% maker and 0.06% taker.
Is Crypto Legal and Regulated in Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Cryptocurrency operates in a legal gray area in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Banque Centrale du Congo (BCC) issued a warning in 2020 about cryptocurrency risks but hasn’t established specific regulations. The central bank acknowledges cryptocurrency trading activities but maintains a cautionary stance.
The DRC’s financial sector operates under the Banking Law No. 18/016, which doesn’t explicitly address cryptocurrencies. Financial institutions must obtain licenses from the BCC for money transmission services, but these requirements don’t specifically cover cryptocurrency operations.
Local businesses can accept cryptocurrencies as payment, though they must comply with general business regulations and anti-money laundering (AML) requirements set by the National Financial Intelligence Unit (CENAREF).
Is Crypto Taxable in Democratic Republic of the Congo?
The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s tax framework for cryptocurrencies remains undefined. The Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI) hasn’t issued specific guidelines for cryptocurrency taxation. General income tax rates in the DRC range from 15% to 40%, but their application to crypto gains isn’t clearly established.
Business income from cryptocurrency trading might fall under the standard corporate tax rate of 30%. Individual traders may need to report gains under the personal income tax framework, though specific requirements aren’t defined.
Disclaimer:
Tax laws are subject to change, and individual circumstances may vary. It is strongly advised to consult with a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for personalized guidance on cryptocurrency taxation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
How to Buy Crypto in Democratic Republic of the Congo
Purchasing cryptocurrency in the Democratic Republic of the Congo requires selecting a reliable exchange that supports local payment methods. Binance offers the most comprehensive services for Congolese users, with support for P2P trading and multiple payment options.
- Select a cryptocurrency exchange based on supported payment methods and KYC requirements suitable for residents of the DRC.
- Complete the registration process and verify your identity with the necessary documents.
- Deposit funds using available methods, such as mobile money services (M-PESA, Orange Money), bank transfers, or peer-to-peer (P2P) trading.
- Choose your preferred cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or USDT, and select the desired trading pair.
- Execute your trade at the target price point.
- Transfer the purchased cryptocurrency to a secure wallet for long-term storage.
P2P trading platforms are often the most accessible option for Congolese users, as they facilitate direct transactions with local payment methods. Be sure to check current market rates and any fees before completing transactions.
Best Crypto Wallets in Democratic Republic of the Congo
Securing cryptocurrencies requires dependable wallet options. Here are the recommended choices for users in the DRC:
Hardware Wallets:
- Ledger – Offers secure offline storage with broad cryptocurrency support
- Trezor – Features a user-friendly design with robust security protections
Software Wallets:
- Trust Wallet – A mobile wallet that supports DApps
- Exodus – Desktop wallet with an integrated exchange feature
- MetaMask – Browser extension wallet designed for Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens
Bottom Line
For accessing the best crypto exchanges in Democratic Republic of the Congo, Binance stands out with its comprehensive P2P marketplace and multiple payment options. KuCoin offers an alternative with competitive fees and reliable service. Both platforms provide necessary features for Congolese traders, including mobile money integration and local currency support through P2P trading.
