Marketing Strategies and Production Profitability of Charcoal in the Rural Zone of Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo

The low efficiency of carbonization techniques reduces the income of charcoal producers and exacerbates deforestation in the Miombo woodlands. This study examines marketing strategies and the profitability of charcoal production in the rural area of Lubumbashi. Activity monitoring, from production to sale, was conducted with 20 professional charcoal producers from the villages of Maksem, Sela, Luisha, and Mwawa. Economic and statistical analyses show that charcoal is mainly sold in the village (55%), in Lubumbashi (35%), and in the forest (10%). Overall, the activity is profitable: sales generate an average profit of CDF 462,218.78 (approximately USD 225.47), with a profit margin of 0.46 and a benefit–cost ratio of 0.86. The 57 kg packaging format is the most profitable, with an average profit of CDF 661,062.18 (USD 322.47), a profit margin of 0.66, and a benefit–cost ratio of 1.96. In contrast, the 29 kg bag results in losses: –CDF 24,009.60 (–USD 11.71), a profit margin of −0.20, and a benefit–cost ratio of −0.19. These findings indicate that profitability is influenced by the point of sale, packaging type, and season. Sales price, along with production and marketing costs, are the main economic determinants. Despite apparent profitability, the sustainability of this activity remains a concern. This study recommends improving production practices, structuring of charcoal producers through legally recognized associations, standardizing packaging, and implementing per-kilogram pricing in order to enhance profitability while reducing the pressure on forest resources.