非洲刚果金之丛林智慧:印度人从生存到成功的进阶/赢了黎巴嫩人Jungle Smart@CongoDRC: Indians Win

民生 2024-09-27 01:03 安哥拉

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Navigating Congo DRC: How Indian Entrepreneurs Transition from Survival to Success

When it comes to the business environment in Congo DRC, it’s often described as one of the toughest in the world. A true “hardcore” market, known for its extreme challenges. Yet, Congo DRC is a place where challenges and opportunities coexist. For many foreign companies, arriving here might feel like stepping into an unsolvable maze. But those who manage to navigate the complex systems often find themselves with plenty of room to grow.

From convoluted regulations, rampant corruption, to the seemingly endless approval processes, Congo DRC’s business landscape isn’t for the faint of heart. While these obstacles can’t be changed, smart entrepreneurs always seem to find ways to break through these barriers.

I once wrote an article about the success of Lebanese entrepreneurs in Africa(黎巴嫩人到底凭什么在非洲混得风生水起？ Success of Lebanese in African Countries), They’ve built powerful networks and businesses, especially in countries like Côte d’Ivoire and Angola. But here’s what surprised me: in Congo DRC, Indian entrepreneurs have outshone their Lebanese counterparts. This raises an important question—why are Indian businesspeople thriving in Congo DRC’s “survival of the fittest” business environment, even more so than the Lebanese?

The answer lies in Congo DRC’s compliance system, which is incredibly bureaucratic and frustratingly inefficient. The country’s infrastructure is underdeveloped, and operating costs are extraordinarily high. However, Indian entrepreneurs seem to possess a unique type of “jungle wisdom” (Jungle Smart) that allows them to navigate these tough conditions with ease. This wisdom, honed through years of navigating India’s own complex, chaotic systems, helps them adapt to Congo DRC’s equally challenging market.

Whether it’s in food import/export, real estate, retail, or supermarkets, Indian entrepreneurs have consistently shown their strength in these sectors. They have leveraged their survival instincts and unique business strategies to thrive in Congo DRC, securing their place as dominant players in this unpredictable market.

This ability to succeed isn’t just about business strategies—it’s about understanding how to navigate complex environments and turning challenges into opportunities. This explains why Indian entrepreneurs have become even more successful in Congo DRC than the Lebanese, despite the latter’s longstanding dominance in other African countries.

非洲刚果金(丛林智慧篇)：印度商人从生存到成功的进阶

谈到刚果金的营商环境，很多人都眉头一皱，这可是“硬核中的硬核”，全球范围内都是难度爆表的市场。但不得不说刚果金却是一个挑战与机遇并存的地方。对于许多外来企业来说，初到这里可能会觉得像是陷入了一场无解的迷宫，但那些能够 navigate 复杂制度的人，最终往往能在这里大展拳脚。复杂到让你头疼的制度、无处不在的腐败、层层叠叠的审批环节，都是这个市场的标配。它们无法改变，但聪明的企业家们总能找到方法，打通这些“死局”。

我之前写过一篇关于黎巴嫩人的文章: 黎巴嫩人到底凭什么在非洲混得风生水起？ Success of Lebanese in African Countries, 但是让我感到大跌眼镜的是，在非洲的刚果金（Congo DRC），印度人反而比黎巴嫩人混得更成功。所以，问题来了：为什么印度人在刚果金这个“野外求生”的商业环境里比黎巴嫩人还如鱼得水？

刚果金的合规制度繁琐得令人抓狂，基础设施落后，运营成本也高得惊人。但印度人却似乎有一种天生的“丛林智慧”（Jungle Smart），让他们在这样的环境下从容游走。这种智慧源于他们在印度本国的经历，印度社会复杂多变，阶层之间的利益纠葛需要极高的情商和适应能力来navigate。

不论是食品进出口、房地产，还是零售业和超市，印度人在这些领域都表现得特别强劲。他们凭借这种独特的生存智慧，在刚果金这样的市场中站稳了脚跟，取得了显著的成功。

文 | Caroline Liang

刚果金的“硬核”营商环境：Fiscaliste背后的复杂税务/合规游戏

Congo DRC’s “Hardcore” Business Environment: The Tax and Compliance Game Behind the Fiscaliste

Congo DRC’s business environment is notorious for being one of the toughest in the world. If you’ve ever listened to local entrepreneurs discuss the Fiscaliste (tax and compliance inspectors), you’d quickly realize how much influence these figures hold. These inspectors are an unavoidable hurdle for every business owner, frequently showing up to point out regulatory or legal issues. For instance, you might just have installed equipment, and they’ll arrive, claiming your permits are incomplete or invalid. You’re then faced with two options: pay a hefty fine or “grease the wheels” to get them off your back. No matter how diligently you follow the rules, there will always be some technicality they can leverage to penalize you.

These inspections aren’t always about maintaining actual tax compliance. More often than not, they’re about creating hurdles that force businesses to use “grey methods” to avoid fines or being shut down. This is the reality in Congo DRC—a web of complex regulations and corruption, where every transaction or business operation could turn into an opportunity for the Fiscaliste to take advantage.

刚果金的“硬核”营商环境：Fiscaliste背后的复杂税务/合规游戏

刚果金的营商环境可以说是全球“硬核中的硬核”，如果你亲耳听过当地企业家谈起 Fiscaliste（税务/合规督察），那你一定会对这个角色的影响深有感触。在这个国家，Fiscaliste几乎是每个企业家绕不开的一道坎。他们频繁出现，指责你这里不合规、那里不合法。比如你可能刚装好了设备，他们就来了，说你的许可有问题，要么罚你一大笔钱，要么你就得“好好打点”一下他们。无论你多么努力去遵守规定，总有些“瑕疵”能让他们找到理由开罚单。

这类检查并不总是为了真正的税务合规，更多是为了“制造麻烦”，让企业不得不通过一些“灰色手段”去打点，才能避免被罚款或关停。这就是刚果金的现实——复杂的制度和腐败问题交织，让每一笔交易和每一项业务都可能成为 Fiscaliste 眼中的“肥肉”。

Complex Systems and Corruption: A Never-Ending Game

Corruption in Congo DRC stems from its extremely convoluted systems. If you think the bureaucracy in former French colonies is bad, Congo DRC, inheriting its system from Belgian colonial rule, takes complexity to a whole new level. Layers of checkpoints, permits, and approvals make doing business here nearly impossible without some form of “under-the-table” dealings. Every procedural step, from filing paperwork to getting a contract signed, can turn into a corruption hotspot.

While Fiscalistes are supposed to ensure tax and regulatory compliance, in practice, they often become a constant source of anxiety for businesses. You never know when they’ll show up again or if the inspection you just passed will indeed be the last one. This creates a cycle of endless “pay-to-play” interactions, forcing many entrepreneurs into a never-ending game of avoiding fines and delays.

复杂制度滋生的腐败：无尽的游戏

刚果金的腐败问题是由它极为复杂的制度所催生的。你可能觉得法国殖民地的官僚主义已经够糟糕了，但刚果金这个继承了比利时殖民地体系的地方，把复杂程度提升到了新的高度。层层关卡和审批流程让企业家寸步难行。这不仅仅是一个腐败的温床，更是一张巨大的“迷宫”，每一个制度节点、每一份文件、每一个审批，似乎都有可能成为腐败滋生的土壤。

Fiscaliste 作为税务/合规督察，名义上是为了维护税收合规，实际操作中却经常成为企业头疼的源头。他们动不动就会出现，你永远不知道哪次检查才是最后一次，或者什么时候他们会再找上门来，这种情景让很多企业家陷入了一个无休止的“打点游戏”。

Bureaucracy + Hiddenn Rules = A Devil’s Playground

Imagine having to go through dozens of different government departments just to start a business. Each department has its own rules, fees, and approval standards. To make matters worse, these rules are often subject to unwritten expectations and hidden fees. Corruption is embedded in every step, from submitting a simple document to signing a contract. A Fiscaliste can easily find a minor fault and push you back to square one, forcing you to spend even more time and money.

Foreign businesses unfamiliar with this system often find themselves struggling to adapt, as they lack the insider knowledge and relationships needed to navigate the maze of red tape. This is why success in Congo DRC demands a fighter mentality—you need to stay sharp and on your toes at all times.

繁文缛节 + 潜规则 = 商业世界的魔鬼关卡

想象一下，开个公司得通过数十个不同的政府部门，每一个部门都有自己的规矩、收费和审批标准。而且这些规矩还时不时变变味，带着满满的“潜规则”。腐败现象几乎贯穿所有环节，从简单的文件递交到合同签署，每一步都可能暗藏“灰色地带”。而“登门拜访“的Fiscaliste 只要稍微“找点问题”，就能让你重新回到起点，花费更多的时间和金钱。那些不愿妥协或不熟悉这种体系的外来企业，往往很难快速适应，甚至可能因无法 navigate 这套复杂的系统而被迫退出市场。这就是为什么在刚果金做生意，你得像个战士一样时刻保持机敏。

The Cat-and-Mouse Game: Navigating the Fiscaliste System

The interaction between businesses and the Fiscaliste is more like a cat-and-mouse game. It’s not just a matter of keeping the business running, but also managing operating costs inflated by constant “negotiations” with inspectors. Every fine you pay or every relationship you manage with a Fiscaliste adds to the burden of doing business in Congo DRC. However, those who learn to navigate the system—particularly those seasoned in challenging environments—can find opportunities even within this convoluted framework, or at the very least, keep their business afloat.

Entrepreneurs often joke that doing business in Congo DRC requires not just market knowledge but the ability to “play the game.” It’s not about offering the best price but about how well you can manage relationships with government departments and handle the Fiscaliste’s constant pressure. If you’re not on the ground and in tune with these dynamics, it’s hard to understand why some business deals never move forward—more often than not, it’s because the business hasn’t figured out how to navigate this complex, layered system.

In short, doing business in Congo DRC means understanding that success depends not only on business acumen but on mastering the art of navigating bureaucracy. Only those who can play by the system’s unwritten rules, while staying flexible and building the right relationships, will thrive in this uniquely challenging environment.

Fiscaliste 与企业家间的猫鼠游戏：要学会Enjoy并Navigate(游走)其中

这种“打点游戏”或者说“猫鼠游戏”不仅让企业难以正常运营，还加重了营商成本。每一笔罚款，或者每一次为 Fiscaliste“疏通关系”，都增加了企业的运营负担。然而，那些能够 navigate 这一制度的企业，尤其是那些习惯了在复杂环境中生存的商人，反而能在这种制度下找到商机，或者至少能够保持业务的稳定。

企业家们经常开玩笑说，在刚果金做生意，你不仅要懂得市场规律，还得“学会玩游戏”。这游戏不是简单的“谁给的价更好”，而是“如何搞定各个部门的关系、应对每一位Fiscaliste的敲打”。如果你没有身处其中，可能很难理解为什么有些事情总是推不动——实际上，这正是因为你还没学会如何 navigate（游走于）这个复杂的体系。

丛林智慧养成记：印度人的极限适应力

Jungle Wisdom in Action: How Indian Entrepreneurs Master Extreme Adaptability

In a country like Congo DRC, where bureaucracy is complex and corruption rampant, how do some businesses still manage to thrive? The answer is simple: you must learn to navigate a system riddled with hidden rules and unspoken expectations.

It’s not just about paying off officials. Entrepreneurs and successful foreign businesspeople, like Indian traders, possess a critical advantage—not necessarily in financial resources, but in understanding how the system works. To succeed, one must identify potential risks at every stage, find ways to avoid unnecessary delays in the approval process, and know exactly which officials to “manage” to keep things moving. The real wisdom lies not in fighting the system but in knowing how to work within its cracks and loopholes.

Indian entrepreneurs are no strangers to such complexity. Back home in India, they’ve navigated a challenging business environment that comes with frequent power outages, poor infrastructure, and sluggish government bureaucracy. The unpredictability of their domestic market has turned them into masters of adaptability.

Take the example of an Indian businessman who set up a small food processing plant in Congo DRC. The approval process was eerily reminiscent of what he had already experienced in India: several government departments, each requiring different documents and fees. Eventually, he built relationships with key intermediaries and navigated the process by “greasing the right wheels,” bypassing delays. This kind of flexibility is true jungle wisdom in action.

It’s like playing a video game on “hard mode”—Indian entrepreneurs, having grown up thriving in “hellish” conditions, view Congo DRC’s tough environment as just a new stage. For instance, in Delhi, even opening a small shop can involve endless trips to government offices, and securing a business license can take months. These experiences have equipped Indian businesspeople with the “superpower” of dealing with bureaucratic tangles. While Congo DRC’s environment is undoubtedly challenging, it doesn’t push them out of their comfort zone. Instead, it offers a platform to display their jungle wisdom, thriving even in extreme conditions.

既然刚果金的制度这么繁琐，腐败如此严重，为什么还是有企业能够成功运作？答案其实很简单：你必须学会在这个充满“潜规则”的环境中navigate（穿梭）。

这不是一个简单的“交钱就能解决”的问题。刚果金的企业家和那些成功的外来商人，比如印度商人，他们拥有的最大优势不是财力，而是对这个系统的熟悉度。你必须清楚了解每个环节的潜在风险、如何规避冗长的审批流程、以及哪些官员需要打点。真正的智慧在于，你要在这个制度中找到缝隙，而不是和制度硬碰硬。

要知道，印度商人对于复杂局面并不陌生。他们的营商环境在印度本土就是个巨大的挑战乐园，从电力短缺、基础设施的欠缺到政府效率……你能想到的麻烦，他们几乎都已经遇到过。面对这些不可预测的局面，印度商人早就练就了一身“应变大师”的本事。

我听说有位印度商人在刚果金开了家小型食品加工厂，过程中他遇到的审批环节简直让他回到了印度的“家乡感觉”。他得从多个政府部门拿许可，每个部门都要求不同的文件和费用。最后，他通过建立关系、找中间人“打点”了整个过程，成功绕过了好几个拖延的步骤。这种灵活应变的智慧，才是真正的“丛林智慧”在发挥作用。

这就像打游戏，印度商人从小就在“地狱模式”里玩得风生水起，刚果金的硬核挑战对他们来说，反而是个新舞台。比如，在印度德里，想开个小店可能要跑上十几趟政府办公室，光是拿到营业执照就能折腾你几个月。但这些经历让他们具备了应对复杂官僚体系的超能力。反观刚果金，这里的挑战对印度商人来说，虽然棘手，但也不至于超出他们的掌控范围。对他们来说，这种环境恰恰提供了施展“丛林智慧”的舞台——他们在极端条件下也能找到生存方式。

Indian Entrepreneurs’ Strategies: Finding Opportunity in Complex Systems

Indian entrepreneurs’ success in Congo DRC is largely due to their familiarity with similar challenges in their home country. In India, they are already accustomed to dealing with bureaucratic red tape and corruption, having long mastered the art of navigating cumbersome processes and greasing the wheels of local bureaucracy. By the time they arrive in Congo DRC, the “harassment” from Fiscalistes (tax inspectors) doesn’t rattle them. They are well-versed in handling such situations and often manage these encounters through a local intermediary, ensuring that business continues smoothly.

Indian businesspeople understand how to negotiate with power structures, build strong networks, and keep their business models flexible. These tactics allow them to survive in the complex tax environment without significantly increasing operational costs. This adaptability and agility are the core reasons for their success in such difficult environments.

For example, one Indian entrepreneur in Congo DRC opened a small food processing factory. The approval process reminded him of India’s bureaucracy: dealing with multiple departments, each demanding different documents and fees. It took him two full years to navigate the approvals, during which he faced bureaucratic resistance, cash flow challenges, and even employee turnover. However, rather than giving up, he found ways to overcome these obstacles, using intermediaries to cut through red tape and expedite the process. His factory eventually began operations, proving that “jungle wisdom” — the ability to adapt and find creative solutions — was key to his success.

印度商人的应对策略：从复杂制度中找到商机

印度商人在刚果金的成功，部分原因在于他们在印度本土已经习惯了面对类似的复杂局面。在印度，官僚体系同样冗杂，腐败问题也并不陌生。印度商人早已练就了 navigate 繁琐流程和打点各类官员的本事，来到刚果金时，面对 Fiscaliste 的“骚扰”反而不显得慌乱，经过“默契地”处理，通常是通过一个本地的中间人帮助打点，事情就能继续顺利进行。

他们懂得如何与当地的权力体系打交道，建立关系网，同时保持灵活的商业策略。通过这些手段，印度商人不仅能够在复杂的税务环境中生存，还能够在不影响业务的前提下，保持较低的成本运作。这种适应性和灵活性，正是他们成功的关键。

我听说有位印度商人在刚果金开了家小型食品加工厂，过程中他遇到的审批环节简直让他回到了印度的“家乡感觉”。他得从多个政府部门拿许可，每个部门都要求不同的文件和费用。历经了整整两年的审批和文件准备过程。期间，他面临着多次的官僚阻力、资金链断裂，以及员工的流失。然而，他并没有选择放弃，而是一步一步打通了各种阻碍，通过建立关系、找中间人“打点”了整个过程，成功绕过了好几个拖延的步骤。最终将他的工厂成功运营起来。这种灵活应变的智慧，才是真正的“丛林智慧”在发挥作用。

Entrepreneurial Spirit in Congo DRC: Resilience is Key

It’s essential to highlight that this kind of resilience is not limited to Indian businesspeople. Entrepreneurs in Congo DRC — both locals and foreigners — must deal with one of the world’s most challenging business environments. They face not only bureaucratic complexities but also daily uncertainty in their personal lives. Yet, despite these obstacles, many entrepreneurs continue to press on, displaying tremendous passion and resilience.

This tenacity is what keeps businesses alive in Congo DRC. Entrepreneurs understand that while they cannot change the system, they can use their resourcefulness and hard work to find opportunities within it. Whether dealing with corruption, delays, or lack of infrastructure, the most successful businesspeople here remain determined to find pathways to growth.

No matter how the market evolves in the future, the ability to navigate complexity will remain a critical factor in the success of Congo DRC’s entrepreneurs. Anyone who can survive here has proven they have the potential to succeed anywhere in the world.

刚果金的企业家：热情与韧性是生存的法宝

这也是我特别想强调的一点：我遇到的无论是印度商人还是本地企业家，真的都很让人佩服。他们面对的不仅是全球最复杂的营商环境之一，还有日常生活中的不确定性与挑战。可即便如此，他们没有退缩，反而展现出无比的热情与坚韧。这种精神，正是刚果金企业家们在这个市场中存活下来的关键。他们明白，制度是无法改变的，但通过自己的智慧和勤奋，他们依然能在这样的环境中找到机会。

无论未来市场如何变化，刚果金本地企业家那种在复杂局面中寻找机会的能力，将始终是他们领先的关键。可以说，能在刚果金生存下来的企业家，几乎具备了在全球任何地方成功的潜力。

黎巴嫩人的“黄金领域”为什么在刚果金让印度人玩胜？

Why Have Indian Entrepreneurs Outperformed Lebanese in Congo DRC?

Lebanese influence in the Francophone parts of Africa is often described as dominant, particularly in sectors like food import/export, retail, real estate, and pharmacies. In countries such as Côte d’Ivoire and Angola, Lebanese business networks have built solid commercial empires, relying heavily on family networks and decades of market presence.

However, in the more challenging environment of Congo DRC, Lebanese businesses seem to have faced more difficulty. By contrast, Indian entrepreneurs have not only managed to secure a foothold in the same sectors but have even outperformed their Lebanese counterparts in some cases. So, what is it about Congo DRC that has allowed Indian businesses to win this competitive race while Lebanese companies have struggled to replicate their success in other Francophone markets?

黎巴嫩人在非洲法语区的影响力几乎可以用“统治级”来形容，尤其是在食品进出口、零售、房地产和药店这些领域，他们在科特迪瓦、安哥拉等国家表现得相当强劲。家族网络和多年的市场深耕，让他们在这些国家建立了牢固的商业帝国。

然而，到了刚果金（DRC），他们却似乎陷入了“水土不服”的境地。反观印度商人，在同样的领域，反而在这个复杂的市场中站稳了脚跟，甚至表现得更加出色。那么问题来了，是什么让印度人在刚果金赢得了竞争，而黎巴嫩人却难以发挥他们在其他法语区的优势？

1. Family Networks vs. Individual Adaptability

One of the main strengths of Lebanese businesses in Africa has been their family networks and the long-standing relationships they have built within their industries. These connections have allowed them to secure significant resources and political favors, particularly in real estate, retail, and food trade. Whether dealing with local governments or dominating key industries, Lebanese family-run businesses have historically thrived by relying on these networks.

However, the business environment in Congo DRC is much more volatile. The country’s complex legal and regulatory frameworks, coupled with widespread corruption, require companies to have extreme flexibility and adaptability. The traditional Lebanese model, which thrives in more stable markets, does not offer the same advantages in a market as unpredictable as Congo DRC.

For instance, in Côte d’Ivoire, Lebanese families dominate the real estate sector by leveraging their deep-rooted relationships with local authorities and their extensive market knowledge. But in Congo DRC, bureaucratic delays, fluctuating policies, and frequent tax inspections make it harder for Lebanese businesses to rely solely on their networks. In this environment, Indian entrepreneurs have adapted by focusing on individual resilience and quickly shifting strategies based on market needs, rather than depending purely on social connections. Their ability to rapidly adjust their business models has given them a competitive edge over Lebanese companies.

1. 家族网络的局限 vs. 个人应变能力

黎巴嫩商人依赖的关键在于他们强大的家族网络和长期积累的关系网。在法语区的国家，这种网络效应帮助他们在特定行业（比如食品、零售、房地产）建立了稳固的市场基础。无论是和当地政府打交道，还是在关键行业中获得资源，黎巴嫩家族式经营都发挥了巨大的优势。

然而，刚果金的营商环境对这种模式并不友好。这里的制度复杂、腐败现象严重，企业必须具备极高的灵活性和个人适应能力才能应对。而黎巴嫩人的传统模式，更适合那些已经相对稳定的市场，而非像刚果金这样动荡且无法预测的商业环境。

例如，黎巴嫩人在科特迪瓦房地产行业占据了很大份额，靠的就是长期的家族经营和对当地市场的深耕。然而在刚果金，市场环境高度动荡，许多建筑项目面临审批迟滞或资金短缺。复杂的官僚体系和频繁的税务检查让他们的模式遭遇挑战——这里每一步都充满了不确定性，简单依赖关系网无法解决问题。相比之下，印度商人更倾向于依赖个人的韧性和灵活应对，迅速调整商业策略，而不是仅仅依赖社交网络。

2. Flexibility vs. Tradition: The True Power of Jungle Wisdom

In Francophone Africa, Lebanese businesspeople have often succeeded by monopolizing specific industry resources, building long-term success. However, Indian entrepreneurs excel in volatile markets by finding flexible solutions and quickly adapting to changing environments. In Congo DRC, business leaders need to not only navigate complex systems but also survive in a landscape filled with corruption and uncertainty. Lebanese reliance on traditional models is increasingly seen as a limitation in such high-dynamic markets. On the other hand, Indian entrepreneurs are well-accustomed to unpredictability and are skilled at using dynamic strategies to respond swiftly to external changes.

Indian businesspeople thrive here not just due to their experience in India’s chaotic markets but also because of their flexible thinking in the face of challenges. In uncertain environments, they are adept at finding certainty—a core principle of jungle wisdom.

Real-life example: An Indian entrepreneur in Congo DRC faced a crisis when local currency sharply depreciated, significantly impacting his food import business. Instead of panicking, he quickly restructured his supply chain to source cheaper products from South Africa, allowing him to capture market share swiftly. This type of rapid response demonstrates jungle wisdom in action. In contrast, businesspeople who rely heavily on established relationships may be slower to react and thus miss critical opportunities.

2.灵活应对 vs. 固守传统，丛林智慧的真正魅力：应对复杂局势的王者

黎巴嫩商人往往在非洲法语区的市场中通过垄断特定行业资源，取得了长远的成功。而印度商人则更擅长在多变的市场中找到灵活的解决方案，快速适应市场环境。在刚果金，企业家不仅需要 navigate 复杂的制度，还必须在腐败和不确定性中找到生存之道。黎巴嫩人在面对如此高动态的市场时，固守传统模式的局限性逐渐显现出来。而印度商人早已习惯了面对不确定性，并善于通过灵活多变的策略快速响应外部环境的变化。

印度商人之所以在这里能游刃有余，除了在印度“历练”过的经验之外，还有他们面对问题时的灵活思维。你得在不确定的情况下找到确定性，这正是丛林智慧的精髓。

真实场景：刚果金有位印度企业家在经营食品进口时，遇到了货币大幅贬值的危机。他没有惊慌，而是迅速调整供应链，从南非进口更低成本的产品，用最快的时间占领了市场。这样灵活应对的能力，正是丛林智慧的一大体现。相比之下，那些过分依赖既定关系的商人，反应速度可能就没有那么快。

3. Navigating Complex Regulations: Surviving Congo’s Tax and Compliance Challenges

Congo DRC’s business complexity stems from its bureaucratic entanglements and rampant corruption. The previously mentioned Fiscaliste (tax inspectors) act like hidden “landmines” in the business landscape, where surprise fees and fines can suddenly arise. Entrepreneurs must learn to navigate these tricky terrains and develop strategies to avoid pitfalls.

While Lebanese businesspeople often rely on stable government relationships and family networks, these fixed strategies can be too rigid for Congo’s unpredictable environment. In contrast, Indian businesspeople are experienced in navigating complex tax regulations and corruption. They employ flexible negotiation tactics, quick responses, and smart risk-avoidance strategies, making them more adept at thriving in this unpredictable market.

Example: In Congo’s food import industry, frequent tax inspections disrupt many businesses with penalties and operational setbacks. Indian entrepreneurs, however, quickly adapted by building strong relationships with tax officials and learning to navigate the system, significantly reducing unnecessary costs. Lebanese businesspeople, with their focus on long-term, stable relationships, often struggled to adjust to such short-term volatility. This lack of agility sometimes caused them to lose out to more adaptive competitors.

3.Navigate 制度的智慧：谁能在复杂的税务/合规环境中生存？

刚果金的市场复杂性主要体现在制度的繁琐和腐败的猖獗。前面提到的 Fiscaliste（税务督察）就像是市场里的“雷区”，随时可能爆发一场费用和罚款的游戏。在这种情况下，企业家们必须学会 navigate 这种复杂环境，并找到应对策略。

黎巴嫩人更多依赖稳定的政府关系和家族网络，但在刚果金，关系的灵活性和制度的不可预测性让他们的模式无法完全发挥作用。相比之下，印度人习惯 navigate 复杂的税务和腐败问题，他们通过灵活的打点、快速反应以及巧妙的避险策略，反而能在这个市场中游刃有余。

举个例子，在刚果金的食品进出口行业，税务检查频繁，很多企业遭遇了不断的罚款和经营干扰。印度商人迅速适应了这种环境，建立了与税务官员的良好关系，通过 navigate 税务系统，减少了很多不必要的麻烦。而黎巴嫩人由于依赖更为长期和稳固的关系，往往在这种短期的混乱中失去了先机。

4. Adapting to Local Markets vs. Relying on External Advantages

One of the key reasons Indian entrepreneurs have gained a competitive edge in Congo DRC is their ability to quickly adapt to local market conditions rather than solely relying on external advantages. Lebanese businesses have long thrived in Francophone African nations, largely due to their strong external resources and extensive social networks. This approach works well in more stable environments. However, in a highly unpredictable market like Congo DRC, businesses must not only leverage external advantages but also learn how to meet local needs effectively.

Indian entrepreneurs, on the other hand, focus more on the specific demands of the local market. Rather than relying solely on imported goods, they have begun shifting production and manufacturing capabilities directly into Congo DRC. This approach reduces operational costs and enhances their ability to respond quickly to market changes.

For instance, some Indian companies have gone beyond importing goods and have established local production lines to manufacture essential consumer products. This strategy not only lowers costs related to logistics and imports but also enables Indian businesses to respond faster to market demands. In contrast, Lebanese businesses tend to be more conservative in terms of localization, often relying on imported goods and long-term external resources.

4. 适应本地市场 vs. 固守外来优势

印度商人在刚果金的另一大优势在于他们能够快速适应本地市场，而不是固守外来优势。黎巴嫩人在法语区国家的成功，很大一部分依赖于他们强大的外来资源和社交网络。这在较为稳定的市场中确实有效，但刚果金这种高度不确定性的环境，要求企业不仅要依赖外部优势，还要懂得如何适应本地化需求。

印度商人则通常更为注重本地市场的需求，他们不仅引进外部产品，也逐渐将生产和制造能力转移到刚果金本地，降低了运营成本，并增强了他们的市场响应能力。

比如，一些印度企业在刚果金不仅仅是进口商品，他们甚至建立了本地的生产线，用于制造基本日用品。这种模式不仅减少了物流和进口成本，还能更快速响应本地市场需求，而黎巴嫩人在本地化上显得相对保守，依赖于进口商品和长期外来资源。

Conclusion: The Winners in Congo DRC are Those Who Can Navigate Complexity

In summary, the advantages Lebanese businesses have enjoyed in other Francophone African countries are harder to fully leverage in Congo DRC. This is mainly because their model heavily depends on long-standing relationships and stable external resources. Congo DRC’s volatile market environment, however, requires businesses to possess high adaptability and the ability to navigate complex systems.

Indian entrepreneurs have excelled in this regard, surpassing their Lebanese counterparts in industries where the latter traditionally thrive. The success of Indian businesses in Congo DRC is not just about having a superior business model but also about navigating complex environments, flexibly handling uncertainties, and responding to market changes with agility.

In Congo DRC, the true victors are those who possess more than just relationships and resources. Success demands wisdom in navigating complex systems, flexibility in managing corruption, and a sharp awareness of market dynamics. It is in these areas that Indian entrepreneurs have outperformed Lebanese businesses, establishing themselves as dominant players in the Congo DRC market.

总结：刚果金的胜者是那些能够 navigate 复杂局面的人

总的来说，黎巴嫩人在非洲其他法语区国家的优势在刚果金难以完全发挥，主要原因在于他们的模式过于依赖长期关系网和稳定的外来资源。而刚果金的市场要求企业具备极高的应变能力和 navigate 复杂制度的智慧。

印度商人在这方面表现出色，他们凭借个人韧性、灵活应对和对本地市场的快速适应，成功在黎巴嫩人擅长的领域中超越了他们。这不仅仅是商业模式的胜利，更是 navigate 复杂环境、灵活掌控不确定性的胜利。

在刚果金，真正能赢的企业家，不仅仅要有关系和资源，还必须具备 navigate 复杂制度的智慧、应对腐败的灵活性，以及对市场变化的敏锐嗅觉。而印度商人，正是在这些方面击败了黎巴嫩商人，成为刚果金市场的主导力量。

行业扩展：印度人的商业版图为何更广？

Multi-Sector Expansion: Why Are Indian Businesses More Diverse?

Indian entrepreneurs in Congo DRC have established a solid presence not only in food import and export, but also in manufacturing, retail, and even infrastructure development. Their success across these various sectors is deeply rooted in their experiences in India.

India’s market operates like a “super diverse survival challenge,” where an entrepreneur needs skills across multiple industries just to thrive. A typical Indian businessperson might run a textile factory in the morning and a food trading company in the afternoon. This cross-industry experience has given Indian entrepreneurs the flexibility to adapt quickly to new opportunities in dynamic and complex markets like Congo DRC.

For example, an Indian entrepreneur in Congo DRC set up small processing factories producing everyday goods like soap, paper towels, and beverages. These are short-cycle products with consistent demand, allowing the entrepreneur to maintain profitability even in a volatile market. In contrast, Lebanese businesspeople often focus on a specific sector, and when that sector faces challenges, their ability to pivot is not as agile.

Key Sectors Where Indian Entrepreneurs Excel in Congo DRC: From Food to Mining

1.Food Import and Export:

Indian entrepreneurs have a sharp sense of low-cost product sourcing and have rapidly dominated the everyday consumer goods market in Congo DRC. From household items to food and light industrial products, Indians have managed to secure a significant portion of the market through flexible supply chain management and a deep understanding of local market needs.

2.Mining:

Congo DRC is a major producer of cobalt and copper, and its rich mineral resources have attracted large investments. Indian businesspeople have successfully entered the mining sector, establishing strong relationships with the local government and navigating the bureaucratic challenges such as dealing with Fiscalistes (tax inspectors). This ability to navigate governmental processes and maintain strong business networks has allowed Indian companies to solidify their presence in the mining industry, ensuring stable operations even in a highly competitive and politically complex environment.

Indian businesses’ ability to diversify and adapt, particularly in Congo’s complex and often unpredictable market, has been crucial to their success in these sectors.

不仅仅是食品进出口，印度商人还在制造业、零售业，甚至基础设施建设方面都有不俗的表现。为什么印度商人能在这么多领域站稳脚跟呢？其实这和他们在印度的成长环境息息相关。

印度的市场就像一个“超级多样化生存大赛”，你得会点多行业的技能才能活下来。一个典型的印度商人可能上午在开纺织厂，下午又在经营食品贸易，这种跨行业的经验让他们在面对复杂市场时，能够迅速找到新的商机。

有个印度商人，在刚果金建了几家小型加工厂，生产生活日用品，比如肥皂、纸巾和饮料等。这些商品生产周期短，市场需求稳定，这让他在动荡的市场环境中，依旧能稳稳盈利。而黎巴嫩商人则往往专注于某个特定行业，当这个行业出现问题时，他们的调整能力就显得有些滞后。

印度人在刚果金的成功领域：从食品到矿产

食品进出口：印度商人凭借他们对低成本产品的敏锐嗅觉，迅速占领了刚果金日常消费品的市场。无论是日用品、食品，还是轻工产品，印度商人通过灵活的供应链管理和对当地市场的深入理解，成功抢占了一大部分市场份额。

矿产开发：作为全球钴和铜的主要生产国，刚果金的矿产资源吸引了大量投资者，而印度商人也不例外。他们通过与当地政府建立良好的关系，成功进入了矿业领域，并借助强大的商业网络，确保了业务的稳定运营。正是这种 navigate 政府、官员以及 Fiscaliste 的能力，使得印度企业能够在刚果金的矿产行业中站稳脚跟。

未来竞争：黎巴嫩人还有更多的机会吗？

Future Competition: Do Lebanese Businesses Still Have More Opportunities?

刚果金金沙萨机场附近的一个市场 A market near the airport@Kinshasa, Congo DRC

While Indian businesses have made impressive strides in Congo DRC, Lebanese entrepreneurs haven’t been completely sidelined. As the market in Congo matures, particularly with improvements in infrastructure, Lebanese businesses still have the chance to leverage their family networks and experience from other African countries to reclaim part of their market share.

Lebanese merchants have historically thrived by utilizing their long-established social networks and family capital, particularly in stable markets. As Congo DRC begins to attract more international investments, Lebanese businesses’ strengths in construction, real estate, and retail — sectors that rely on long-term relationships and stable resource allocation — could help them re-establish their influence. If the country’s infrastructure continues to improve, Lebanese entrepreneurs could replicate their successes from markets like Côte d’Ivoire and Angola.

Opportunities in Emerging Sectors

As global demand for African resources grows, Congo DRC is expected to see a rise in new industries, especially in infrastructure development and real estate. These areas will likely become focal points for future investments, and Lebanese businesses could use their expertise from other African markets to secure a foothold in these sectors.

For instance, in Angola and Côte d’Ivoire, Lebanese businesses dominated several large construction projects by leveraging family capital and strong governmental relationships. With the urbanization of Congo DRC and the advancement of infrastructure projects, similar opportunities may emerge. Lebanese entrepreneurs could quickly re-enter the Congo market, especially in infrastructure-related sectors like road construction, bridges, and urban housing development.

The Continued Relevance of India’s “Jungle Smart”

Despite the potential for new opportunities, Indian businesses’ “Jungle Smart” — their ability to navigate complex and dynamic markets — remains a key competitive edge. Indian entrepreneurs have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, particularly in volatile environments, allowing them to respond swiftly to market fluctuations.

For example, in the mining sector, Indian companies have not only secured resource supplies through government cooperation but also established robust global supply chains, ensuring their competitiveness even during periods of market instability. In contrast, Lebanese businesses, while heavily reliant on family networks, tend to respond more slowly to sudden changes, potentially limiting their flexibility in times of market volatility.

In conclusion, while the Lebanese businesses still have significant potential in Congo DRC, especially with improving infrastructure, Indian entrepreneurs’ flexibility, diverse business experience, and nimble adaptation strategies continue to provide them with a crucial advantage in this competitive and evolving market.

虽然印度人在刚果金的表现已经令人瞩目，但黎巴嫩商人并未被完全挤出市场。随着刚果金市场的逐步成熟，尤其是基础设施的逐步完善，黎巴嫩人仍然有机会凭借他们的家族网络和在其他非洲国家积累的经验，重新抢占部分市场份额。

黎巴嫩商人一向擅长运用他们的长期社交网络和家族资本，在较为稳定的市场中迅速扩展。对于即将进入更多国际资金支持的刚果金市场，他们的优势在于建筑、房地产和零售等需要长期关系、稳定资源分配的行业。如果刚果金的基础设施能逐渐改善，黎巴嫩人有可能重演他们在科特迪瓦和安哥拉的成功故事。

新兴行业的潜力

刚果金的市场随着全球对非洲资源的需求不断增加，将催生出一系列的新兴行业。基础设施建设和房地产开发将成为未来投资的重点。黎巴嫩人或许可以利用他们在非洲其他地区的建筑和开发经验，在这些行业重新夺回一席之地。

黎巴嫩人在安哥拉和科特迪瓦主导了多个大型建筑项目，通过其家族内部资本和与本地政府的关系，确保了长期稳固的市场份额。随着刚果金的城市化进程和基础设施项目的推进，类似的机会可能会再度出现。黎巴嫩商人能够运用他们在这些国家积累的经验，迅速切入刚果金市场，尤其是在基础设施领域，比如公路、桥梁、以及城市住房建设。

印度人的“丛林智慧”仍然是关键

然而，不管黎巴嫩人在未来的市场中找到多少新机会，印度商人的“丛林智慧”（Jungle Smart）仍然是不可忽视的优势。印度商人凭借其高度灵活的应变能力，已经在面对市场波动和不确定性时表现出色。这种多样化的商业经验和灵活应对能力，使得印度人能够迅速调整战略，抓住市场变化带来的机遇。

比如，在矿产领域，印度公司不仅通过与政府合作来稳固其资源供应，还建立了强大的全球供应链，使其即使在市场动荡时也能保持竞争力。相比之下，黎巴嫩商人更多依赖家族网络，导致他们在面对突如其来的变化时，往往反应较慢。

写在最后

In Closing

笔者本人@刚果金首都金沙萨 ,与一位对刚果金市场充满激情的企业家朋友

The author@Congo DRC-Kinshasa, with an passionate entrepreneur‍

Though Congo DRC is often labeled as a "difficult-to-enter" market, this country of nearly 100 million people is brimming with untapped potential. You might think that the high logistics costs, corruption, and complex tax system make it a hard market to crack, but for entrepreneurs who know how to **navigate** these complexities — especially dealing with “Fiscalistes” (tax inspectors) and the country's bureaucratic layers — the opportunities far outweigh the risks. Whether it's Indian entrepreneurs or local businesspeople, their success isn’t just about having a good business strategy, but also about their ability to skillfully maneuver through the corruption and the convoluted regulatory environment of this market.

In the end, success in Congo DRC belongs to those who can "dance with the system." It’s a game requiring intelligence, courage, and patience. Those who master the art of “Jungle Smart" will continue to thrive in this challenging yet opportunity-filled environment.

刚果金，虽然被贴上“难以进入”的标签，但这片拥有近一亿人口的国度，实际上充满着未开发的潜力。你可能觉得高昂的物流成本、腐败问题和复杂的税务制度是“难啃的骨头”，但对于那些拥有 navigate 繁杂制度和应对 Fiscaliste 能力的企业家来说，反而机会远远大于风险。无论是印度商人，还是本地的企业家，他们的成功不仅依赖于商业策略，更在于他们如何智慧地游走于这片充满腐败和复杂制度的市场丛林。

最终，刚果金的成功属于那些懂得如何与制度共舞的人。这是一场需要智慧、勇气和耐心的游戏，而那些掌握了“丛林智慧（Jungle Smart）”的企业家，将继续在这里谱写他们的成功故事。

Thank you all for your attention and support! Keep liking, sharing, and commenting（Higly Aprreciate your insightful comments, which will enlighten me on future writing). We’ll continue to bring you more insightful and engaging business stories!

感谢大家的关注和支持，继续点赞、转发、特别是留言（高质量留言会给我的创作带来洞见和启发）！我将持续为大家带来更多有料有趣的商业故事

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