Starting an Import/Export Business in Rwanda

Rwanda imports about USD 3 billion worth of goods annually and exports about USD 1.5 billion. Closing that gap is a national priority, but it also represents opportunity for businesses on both sides of the equation.

Getting started

1. Register your business with RDB — standard company registration
2. Get customs clearance registration — register with Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) for customs
3. Obtain an import/export license — from MINICOM (Ministry of Trade and Industry) for certain controlled goods
4. Open a forex account — you’ll need to handle foreign currency transactions

Understanding customs and duties

Rwanda is part of the East African Community (EAC) customs union. Duty rates depend on product category:

• Raw materials: 0% duty
• Semi-finished goods: 10% duty
• Finished goods: 25% duty
• Sensitive items: may have additional protections

On top of customs duty, you’ll pay 18% VAT on the CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) value plus duty.

Logistics routes

Rwanda is landlocked, so goods arrive through neighbouring countries:

• Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) — the most common route. Port to Kigali takes 7–14 days by road
• Mombasa (Kenya) — alternative route through Uganda. Similar timeline
• Air freight — Kigali International Airport handles cargo. Faster but significantly more expensive

Export opportunities

Rwanda’s main exports and their opportunities:

• Coffee — speciality coffee commands premium prices internationally
• Tea — Rwanda is a significant tea exporter
• Minerals — tin, tantalum, tungsten (3Ts) — heavily regulated
• Textiles and garments — growing sector, especially under “Made in Rwanda”
• Horticulture — flowers and fresh produce to European and Middle Eastern markets

Practical tips

• Use a licensed customs clearing agent for your first few shipments until you understand the process
• Build relationships with freight forwarders who know the Rwanda corridor
• Factor in 2–4 weeks for first-time imports — it gets faster once you have established relationships
• Keep meticulous records — customs documentation errors cause expensive delays
• Build a professional website to establish credibility with international suppliers and buyers

Import/export is one of Rwanda’s most regulated business areas. Get the paperwork right from the start and you’ll avoid costly delays and penalties down the line.