S&P Global Ratings raised the outlook on the Democratic Republic of the Congo's long-term credit rating to positive from stable amid reducing domestic tensions and improving international relations.

This could mean improved political stability, and support more broad-based economic growth and structural reforms.

However, there is a risk of political instability amid accusations of fraud and a lack of transparency in the presidential election, threatening Congo's weak economy.

S&P Global Ratings expects Congo's real GDP growth to average 4.2% in 2019-2022, compared with about 7% in 2011-2016.

The rating agency affirmed the CCC+/C long- and short-term foreign- and local-currency ratings of the country.

This S&P Global Market Intelligence news article may contain information about credit ratings issued by S&P Global Ratings. Descriptions in this news article were not prepared by S&P Global Ratings.