Rwanda’s participation in the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai marks another significant step in the country’s growing trade and investment relations with China. Held from November 5–10, 2025, the CIIE attracted more than 4,000 exhibitors from 155 countries and regions.
At the expo, Rwanda not only showcased some of its export-ready products, such as coffee, tea, and honey, but also used the powerful platform to attract Chinese investors and expand access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
“Each year, we see growing interest from Chinese consumers and investors. Our goal is to strengthen Rwanda’s foothold in this market and continue building partnerships that support industrialization, digital innovation, and sustainable trade,” said Michelle Umurungi, Chief Investment Officer at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
On the sidelines of the expo, the Rwanda Development Board signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Hongqiao Overseas Chinese Business Association Expo and Trade Promotion Center, a landmark agreement designed to boost bi lateral cooperation in trade, technology and investment
According to RDB, the partnership will promote Rwandan products in China, attract more Chinese investors to Rwanda, and enhance technology transfer to accelerate Rwanda’s industrial and digital transformation.
Rwanda also hosted an Investment Promotion Forum drawing over 200 Chinese companies eager to learn about the country’s business climate, investment incentives, and emerging opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing, energy, tourism and ICT.
Rwanda’s consistent presence at the CIIE underlines its strategic use of global trade platforms to advance national priorities: increasing exports, attracting high-value investment, and promoting tourism under the #VisitRwanda brand.
China’s market access: A boost for African competitiveness
China has been Africa’s largest trading partner for sixteen consecutive years, and initiatives like CIIE have become crucial platforms for African countries to expand market access. China’s zero-tariff policy for African products is a strategic advantage that lowers export costs and enhances competitiveness.
“The zero-tariff policy is a real opportunity for Rwandan exporters. It reduces trade barriers and gives our products, particularly agricultural ones, an edge in this highly competitive market. It also reflects China’s trust and openness toward African economies,” noted Umurungi.
Rwanda’s export portfolio to China continues to expand, with agricultural products such as coffee and tea leading the way. The two countries have also deepened cooperation in technology, energy, and infrastructure, while discussions on expanding agricultural exports, including avocados, are advancing.
Shared prosperity in a new era of cooperation
The theme of this year’s expo, “New Era, Shared Future,” echoes Rwanda’s own vision of building partnerships that go beyond aid and move toward shared growth through trade, investment, and innovation.
Rwanda’s approach to cooperation with China reflects a broader shift in African economic diplomacy: one that prioritizes competitiveness, value addition, and industrial growth over raw material exports.
“This MoC opens new pathways for investment and innovation. It reflects our shared vision with China of building mutually beneficial partnerships that create value, jobs, and opportunities for both sides,” said Ambassador James Kimonyo, Rwanda’s envoy to China.
He added that China has been a dependable partner for Rwanda with collaboration evolving from infrastructure support to technology exchange and investment partnerships. The next phase is about deepening this relationship in ways that directly empower businesses and entrepreneurs.
Rwanda’s continued participation in CIIE and its proactive trade diplomacy signal a clear intent to position the country not just as a beneficiary of global trade, but as a competitive player shaping the future of Africa-China economic relations.
