Rwanda is showcasing locally made products at the ninth China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, as trade between the two countries continues to grow, reaching approximately $849 million in 2025, up from $300 million in 2019.
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The six-day expo, which opened on November 5 at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre, runs until November 10 and brings together government officials, business leaders, investors and exporters from around the world.
Rwandan exhibitors are displaying specialty coffee, tea, chilli, dried fruits, natural honey, macadamia nuts, avocado oil and handicrafts.
Rwanda has participated in the expo since its inaugural edition in 2018. This year’s edition also coincides with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Rwanda and China.
Rwanda’s Ambassador to China, Lt Gen (Rtd) Emmanuel Karenzi Karake, said the expo has opened up opportunities for local businesses to connect with Chinese buyers.
"CIIE has proven to be an invaluable platform for Rwandan enterprises, particularly smallholder farmers and women-led cooperatives, to access the Chinese market and build lasting business partnerships.
"The Expo comes at an opportune time to showcase our high-quality products, connect with Chinese buyers and investors, and explore new trade opportunities, as Rwanda and China mark 55 years of diplomatic relations. Every cup of Rwandan coffee or taste of our honey enjoyed by Chinese consumers represents an opportunity to support Rwandan farmers, families and entrepreneurs,” the ambassador said.
He encouraged Rwandan businesses to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the expo to expand trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.
Trade and investment ties
Bilateral trade between Rwanda and China rose from $300 million in 2019 to approximately $849 million in 2025.
Rwanda’s exports to China also increased from $35 million to $227 million over the same period, representing growth of about 549 per cent.
Registered investments by Chinese companies in Rwanda grew by 19 per cent, from $460 million in 2024 to $548.5 million in 2025. Chinese firms have investments in manufacturing, infrastructure, construction, energy, and real estate.
China introduced zero-tariff treatment for all Rwandan goods on December 1, 2024, allowing Rwandan exporters to access the Chinese market without paying import duties. However, exports must still meet applicable rules of origin, customs procedures and product-specific requirements.