The Democratic Republic of Congo has announced a one-year ban on the import of beer and soft drinks in a bid to boost local production and reduce trade deficits. Michel Kabwit, a Congolese businessman, anticipates that the ban will shift consumer preferences and encourage domestic manufacturers to scale up. Serge Muber, a former member of parliament from Ituri Province, supports the move but cautions that it could lead to increased prices and potential shortages.