The Best Places to Buy Fabrics in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo

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Moungali market is one of Congo’s biggest markets, and is filled with good bargains. Each section of this market is filled with different things, from spices to clothing boutiques, and of course the fabric section. This section of the market is extremely big, and offers everything from denim fabrics to African prints, silk or cotton – you name it, the choice is yours to make. Moungali market has a variety of choice for prints, though the prices can be a little higher compared to other places in Congo. For example, a meter (3 feet) of fabric can cost about 6,500 FCFA, which is about USD$11.40, though it is possible to haggle on prices. The are also a few tailors within the market – any fabric vendor can recommend a good tailor nearby.

Poto-Poto market is one of Congo’s most famous markets. Like any other market in Congo, this market has a vast array of vendors selling different products. The market also has a fabric section, with over a hundred boutiques selling a variety of fabrics, from silk through to African print and cotton. The prices in this specific market a bit less pricey than Moungali market – prices per meter start from 4,500 FCFA, which is about USD$7.90 – though they’re still costly for a fabric price in Congo. This market, like most markets, has a number of tailors on-site ready to design some trendy outfits for anyone at a very affordable price.

Mikalou is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Brazzaville – the only disadvantage of this place is that it is about a 40 minutes’ drive from the city center, which might not be ideal for most tourists visiting Congo. That said, if you want to get the best out of your fabric shopping, then Mikalou is the place to find a cheap deal and good quality wares. There are over a dozen fabric shops – best known as ‘merceries‘ in Congo – right across Mikalou market. Lined up next to each other, these places are heaven on earth for fashionistas, as the fabric prices are not only cheap but also open to haggling – fabrics here are sold for a starting price of only 2,000 FCFA per meter, which is about USD$3.50.