LIBREVILLE, 8 July 2026 – A 25% price increase for a 50kg ballot of second-hand knits, including sweaters and children’s clothing, has been noted in Kinshasa’s markets, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to a recent mini-enquiry by the Congolese Press Agency (ACP).
The price has risen from 200 to 250 USD, with vendors attributing the surge to the dry season’s high demand, increased transportation costs, and a scarcity of goods. Dhekina Mavuanga, a vendor at the UPN market in Ngaliema commune, explained that the upward price trend is also due to wholesalers holding back stocks to capitalize on the scarcity.
The cost of ballots of scarves, hats, and gloves has also risen, with some items now priced at 100 USD instead of the previous 80 USD. Fabrice Yodila, an entrepreneur at the Liberty market in Masina commune, noted that the sale of cold-weather garments, such as knits, jackets, scarves, blankets, and bed linens, allows traders to profit during the dry season.
However, consumers have expressed that sellers are less willing to negotiate prices due to the increased cost of purchase. This price increase in second-hand clothing is likely to affect the livelihoods of local populations in Kinshasa who rely on second-hand clothing for daily needs, potentially leading to increased financial strain.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Agpgabon
Source: Redaction
