Export to China played key role for Rwandan exporters

Exporting to China is critically important for Rwandan exporters as it provides access to one of the world's largest consumer markets and serves as a primary driver for the country's economic diversification and growth.

China has become a leading trade partner, with Rwandan exports to the country surging by over 350% between 2019 and 2024, reaching $160.6 million. Export to China played key role for Rwandan exporters in order to reduce reliance on limited number of markets.

Look at this recent article from NEWTIMES

The National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) has intensified efforts to diversify Rwanda's export markets, expanding horticultural exports beyond traditional destinations to new markets in the Middle East, India, and China.

Export protocols signed with China for products such as chilli, avocado, macadamia, and honey have played a key role in reducing reliance on a limited number of markets while opening new trade opportunities for Rwandan exporters.

NAEB has also supported exporters to participate in international trade fairs and exhibitions, enabling them to showcase Rwandan products, connect with new buyers, and better understand evolving global market demands......See more from NEWTIMES  here

All is in all.

Here’s the truth:....

Export to China for Rwandan exporters Strategic Importance

Market Scale & Growth: China offers a market of 1.4 billion consumers, providing Rwandan businesses with a massive and dynamic retail channel that dwarfs regional options.

Economic Diversification: While minerals like tin and tungsten remain top exports, the Chinese market is essential for shifting Rwanda's export base toward high-value agricultural products like avocados, specialty coffee, and tea.

Trade Incentives: Rwandan exporters benefit from a zero-tariff policy on 98% of taxable items, significantly lowering costs and increasing the competitiveness of "Made in Rwanda" products

Here's what to know:

Rwandan export to China key commodities (2024-2025)

Rwandan is rich with minerals and agricultural commodities, naturally, trade what you have is absolutely practical strategy.

Minerals: Niobium, tantalum, and tin ores are the largest exports by value, with $17.3 million in tantalum ore imports reported by China in a single month (October 2025).

Agricultural Breakthroughs:

[1] Avocados: A milestone protocol signed in late 2025 allows for fresh avocado exports, with the government aiming to reach $12.9 million in avocado revenue by 2029.

[2] Chili & Coffee: Rwanda has established strong niches in specialty coffee and dried chili, including a major deal to supply up to 50,000 tones of chili annually over five years

Here is getting exciting

China offers critical platforms for Rwandan exporters

China International Import Expo (CIIE): This is the primary platform for Rwandan SMEs and cooperatives to secure long-term buyer contracts and showcase products like organic honey and chili oil.

e-Commerce (eWTP): Rwanda was the first African country to join Alibaba’s Electronic World Trade Platform, which lowers trade barriers for small businesses through digital logistics and cross-border training.

If you are an exporter or engaging on exports businesses, need help for bringing your products into Chinese market, you need to have a List of Chinese Importers, please take your CONTACT China.org, let us know, we may offer you practical and useful business support.