Rwandan Ambassador to China James Kimonyo recently shared insights about his country's participation in the China International Import Expo (CIIE), highlighting Rwanda's remarkable trade growth with China.
As the first African nation to export dried chili peppers to China, Rwanda has been a consistent participant in CIIE since its inception in 2018. This year, around 18 Rwandan companies showcased their premium agricultural products, including coffee, chili peppers, tea, and honey, offering Chinese consumers a taste of Rwanda.
Coffee remains Rwanda’s flagship export, benefiting from ideal growing conditions at altitudes of 1,000–2,000 meters with volcanic soil and steady rainfall. Seven distinct coffee brands from Rwanda’s five major regions were featured at the expo. Meanwhile, dried chili peppers, introduced to China in 2021, have become a key export, processed into sauces and juices for major e-commerce platforms like JD.com and Taobao.
New additions to Rwanda’s export lineup this year include macadamia nuts, recently approved by Chinese customs, and fresh avocados, which Rwanda hopes to introduce soon. Ambassador Kimonyo noted that plant-based cosmetics, which sold out quickly at the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in June, also made their debut at CIIE.
The expo has significantly boosted trade opportunities for Rwanda. One coffee company, G Step, transitioned from selling suitcase-sized samples to shipping full containers to China. Similarly, brands like Gorilla Coffee have seen exponential order growth. Last year, a Zhejiang-based buyer signed an agreement on-site to use Rwandan coffee beans in chocolate production, demonstrating the expo’s role in fostering practical cooperation.
China’s zero-tariff policy for least-developed countries has further supported Rwanda’s exports. Bilateral trade reached $669 million in 2024, with Chinese imports rising 22.5% to $160 million.
Beyond trade, Rwanda’s partnership with China has delivered tangible benefits. A chili pepper demonstration project in Hunan, covering 100 hectares, exported 200 tons of dried peppers in its first season, improving local infrastructure and farmer incomes. Similarly, Rwanda’s coffee farmers now earn $4 more per kilogram thanks to expanded market access.
Looking ahead, Rwanda seeks to deepen cooperation in agriculture, green energy, and digital infrastructure, leveraging China’s expertise in modernization. Ambassador Kimonyo emphasized CIIE’s role in strengthening long-term partnerships, expressing optimism for future win-win collaborations.
The expo not only facilitates trade but also reinforces enduring ties, paving the way for mutual growth in emerging sectors.