The Private Sector Federation (PSF) announced Tuesday that the 28th edition of the International Trade Fair (EXPO 2025) currently underway in Kigali has attracted exhibitors from 19 countries across various continents — up from 17 countries in last year’s edition.
The annual trade fair, which began on July 29 and runs through Aug. 17, has drawn 475 exhibitors, slightly up from 466 in 2024, with companies showcasing products and services across sectors including agriculture, technology, manufacturing, media, and electric vehicles — the latter appearing at the event for the first time.
Speaking at the official opening held on Aug. 5, PSF Chief Executive Officer Jeanne-Françoise Mubiligi said the growing number of participating countries is a sign that the fair delivers tangible benefits to both local and international businesses.
“We have 378 exhibitors from Rwanda and 97 from abroad,” she said. “This year, we welcomed 19 countries, including new participants from Cameroon and Saudi Arabia.”
Mubiligi thanked both private sector companies and government institutions for their involvement, noting that the fair continues to serve as a crucial platform for innovation, business networking, and local product promotion.
Antoine Marie Kajangwe, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry, said EXPO 2025 aligns with Rwanda’s long-term development ambitions.
“This event shows how far the private sector has come and helps us identify where support is most needed,” Kajangwe said. “Whether it’s clothing manufacturers or agro-processors, showcasing here promotes industrial growth.”
Saudi Arabian entrepreneur Orlando Williams, attending the event for the first time, praised Rwanda as an investment-friendly nation with strong security and abundant opportunities.
“I’m impressed with how Rwanda supports investors,” he said.
Rwandan innovator Jean Bosco Mungurareba, one of the local exhibitors, said the platform helped him promote his eco-friendly wall panels that serve as an alternative to cement and sand.
“These are wooden boards mainly used for interior finishes like wall panels and ceilings,” he explained. “Visitors often ask, ‘Are these really made in Rwanda?’”
He said the panels help reduce maintenance costs, eliminate the need for frequent painting, and protect walls from cold and damage.
PSF expects between 250,000 and 300,000 visitors to attend the trade fair before it closes on Aug. 17.
