Rwanda’s domestic exports grew by 11.4% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year, according to a new report released by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR).
The report, published on July 21, shows that goods produced in Rwanda and exported abroad earned the country Rwf 688 billion (about $480.8 million), up from Rwf 617 billion (about $431.6 million) recorded in the first quarter of 2024.
Officials say the growth reflects continued progress in Rwanda’s production capacity and its reach into international markets.
Despite the increase in domestic exports, overall trade slightly declined. The total value of Rwanda’s trade in the first quarter of 2025 stood at Rwf 2.859 trillion ($1.99 billion), representing a 0.99% decrease compared to the same period last year.
Imports dropped by 2.23%, amounting to Rwf 1.975 trillion ($1.38 billion), while re-exports—goods imported and then exported again—fell sharply by 21.82%, totaling Rwf 194 billion ($135.4 million).
The main destinations for Rwanda’s domestically produced exports were the United Arab Emirates, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), China, Luxembourg, and the United States.
Food and livestock products made up the largest share of re-exports, with a value of Rwf 61 billion ($42.3 million). Petroleum products and oils followed at Rwf 49 billion ($34.3 million).
Meanwhile, Rwanda’s top import partners included China, Tanzania, Kenya, India, and the UAE.
While some segments of foreign trade declined, the increase in domestic exports highlights Rwanda’s efforts to boost homegrown production and reduce reliance on imports. NISR noted that this trend is an important driver for sustainable economic growth.
