The figures speak for themselves. In the first six months of 2026, Rwanda exported goods worth $236.99 million to China, equivalent to approximately Rwf350.3 billion.
This exceeded the value of Rwanda’s total exports to China throughout 2025. If the current growth rate continues, Rwanda could set a new record for exports to China by the end of this year.
In the second quarter of 2026, Rwanda’s exports to China reached $142.38 million, equivalent to approximately Rwf210.4 billion.
This represented a 248.3% increase compared with the $40.88 million, or Rwf60.4 billion, recorded in the second quarter of 2025. In the first quarter of 2026, Rwanda had exported goods worth $94.61 million, equivalent to more than Rwf139.8 billion.
Bilateral trade between the two countries reached $849 million in 2025, up from $300 million in 2019. Over the same period, Rwanda’s exports to China increased from $35 million to $227 million, representing growth of nearly 549%.
Registered investments by Chinese companies in Rwanda also rose from $460 million in 2024 to $548.5 million in 2025, an increase of 19%. These companies operate in sectors including manufacturing, infrastructure, construction, energy and real estate.
The figures were presented in Shanghai, where Rwanda is participating for the ninth time in the China International Import Expo (CIIE), taking place at the National Exhibition and Convention Center from November 5 to 10.
Rwanda has participated in the expo since its launch in 2018. This year’s edition has attracted 4,142 foreign exhibitors.
The exhibition covers more than 440,000 square metres, making it the largest edition in the event’s history. It has brought together 162 countries, regions and international organisations.
China’s Vice Premier, Ding Xuexiang, said the expo was intended to connect businesses with opportunities, describing China as both a global manufacturing hub and a major consumer market.
At Rwanda’s exhibition stand, companies are showcasing specialty coffee, tea, chilli, fruits, natural honey, macadamia nuts and handicrafts.
Ivan Shema, founder of 1000 Hills Products, told IGIHE that the CIIE provides the company with an opportunity to find new buyers in Asia.
The company adds value to Rwandan coffee and fruits. It began exporting coffee to Poland in 2015, from where its products reach other European markets.
At this year’s expo, the company is showcasing coffee, pineapples, mangoes and avocados. Shema said: “We believe we can find a new market in China.”
Rwanda and China are also marking 55 years since establishing diplomatic relations.
Rwanda’s Ambassador to China, Lt Gen (Rtd) Emmanuel Karenzi Karake, said the CIIE helps Rwandan companies introduce a range of products to Chinese consumers.
“The CIIE has proven to be a very valuable platform for Rwandan companies, particularly smallholder farmers and women-led cooperatives, to access the Chinese market and build lasting trade partnerships. Every cup of Rwandan coffee and every taste of Rwandan honey enjoyed by Chinese consumers represents an opportunity to support farmers, families and entrepreneurs in Rwanda,” he said.
Tariff Exemptions Deliver Results
China-Africa trade reached a record $348.05 billion in 2025, representing a 17.7% increase compared with the previous year.
China imported goods worth $123.02 billion from Africa and exported goods worth $225.03 billion to the continent.
In the second quarter of 2026, China became Rwanda’s largest source of imports, supplying goods worth $415.89 million, equivalent to more than Rwf614.7 billion.
China exports vehicles, electrical equipment, machinery, construction materials and textiles to Rwanda.
In 2025, vehicles exported to Rwanda were valued at $130.45 million, while electrical and electronic equipment accounted for $114.65 million and machinery for $46.62 million.
In 2025, China imported goods worth $2.59 trillion and exported goods valued at $3.77 trillion, equivalent to approximately Rwf5,572 trillion.
China has maintained its position as the world’s second-largest import market for 17 consecutive years and remains a major export destination for nearly 80 countries.
Duty-free access for eligible Rwandan products entering the Chinese market took effect on December 1, 2024.
On May 1, 2026, the programme was extended to all 53 African countries with which China maintains diplomatic relations, subject to rules of origin and product-specific requirements.
Figures from China’s Ministry of Commerce show that imports from Africa reached $28.61 billion in May and June, an increase of 23.5% compared with the same period in 2025.
African imports included avocados, which increased by 130%, apples by 89.6% and oranges by 27.9%.
Ding said China would continue expanding its import programme, adding that it would increase purchases of more high-quality goods and services.
