Rwanda to begin avocado exports to China after new trade protocol

RWANDA – Rwanda will soon begin exporting avocados to China following the conclusion of a new trade protocol, the Rwandan embassy in Beijing has announced.

The agreement will expand the two countries’ growing trade ties and strengthen Rwanda’s export base beyond traditional products like coffee and tea.

Rwandan avocados already enjoy high demand in the Middle East, especially in the United Arab Emirates. The new agreement with China is expected to open a large market for Rwandan farmers and exporters.

“The protocol for the export of Rwanda’s avocados to China is also expected to be signed soon, further broadening the variety of Rwandan products available to Chinese consumers,” the embassy said on November 4.

Rwanda first joined the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in 2018, introducing agricultural and processed goods such as coffee, tea, chili, natural honey, macadamia nuts, and handcrafts. Since then, Rwanda’s exports to China have grown from US$35 million in 2019 to US$160.6 million in 2024.

“As Rwanda embarks on its 8th appearance at the CIIE, with more than 15 brands represented, it reaffirms its commitment to enhancing economic and cultural ties with China and to showcasing the best of Rwanda to the international community,” the embassy added.

A growing partnership

Rwanda’s participation in the CIIE has boosted recognition of its coffee and chili among Chinese consumers. The event continues to serve as a platform for promoting trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange.

“This year’s participation takes place against the backdrop of growing collaboration between Rwanda and China in trade, investment, and industrial development, guided by the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation,” the embassy noted.

Rwanda’s Ambassador to China, James Kimonyo, said the CIIE continues to open doors for smallholder farmers and women-led cooperatives. “The CIIE has proven to be an invaluable platform for Rwandan enterprises, especially smallholder farmers and women-led cooperatives, providing access to the Chinese market. Over previous editions, Rwandan brands, particularly coffee, tea, and honey, have established important trade partnerships that contribute to income generation and job creation in Rwanda.”

Strong trade and investment growth

China remains Rwanda’s largest source of foreign direct investment, which reached US$460 million in 2024 across manufacturing, real estate, agro-processing, and mining.

Rwanda’s avocado exports have also grown rapidly, generating US$6.3 million in 2023, up from only US$440,000 in 2013, according to the National Agricultural Export Board.

The country exported 3,200 tonnes of avocados last year at an average of US$2 per kilogram. Officials aim to raise exports to 31,000 tonnes by 2029, focusing on new markets in China and India.

The upcoming protocol with China is expected to further strengthen Rwanda’s position as a reliable supplier of high-quality agricultural products and expand opportunities for farmers and exporters across the country.

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