The National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) has introduced tougher penalties for unauthorized pricing and transactions in foreign currency, in a bid to reinforce the use of the Rwandan franc in domestic transactions.
According to Regulation No 89/2025, published in the official gazette on May 30, 2025, individuals or businesses found pricing goods or services in foreign currencies without explicit permission from the Central Bank now face stiff administrative fines.
Under the new regulation, first-time offenders who display or advertise prices in foreign currency can be fined Rwf5 million, while repeat offenders face Rwf10 million.
Entities conducting unauthorised foreign exchange transactions will pay 50% of the amount involved on the first offence and 100% on subsequent violations.
Central Bank Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye emphasised that these measures aim to promote monetary stability and consumer protection.
“Rwandan residents must transact in the local currency unless expressly authorised,” she said.
Several online platforms, including property dealers, have been created, while tenants of big commercial buildings have complained about being priced in foreign currencies.
