From 29^th June to 2^nd July 2023, Rwandan exporters showcased their products at the 3rd China Africa Economic Trade Expo (CAETE) in Changsha, Hunan Province.

The expo is the most significant exhibition within the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), organized by the Central Government of the People's Republic of China.

This year's expo was held under the theme "Common Development for a Shared Future”. It attracted thousands of participants from both African countries and Chinese companies and placed a strong emphasis on the various programs for China-Africa Cooperation.

Speaking with the media at the event, Rwanda's Ambassador to China, H.E. James Kimonyo, emphasized that the expo has been a significant opportunity for Rwandan traders since its inception in 2019.

"The previous editions of the event have brought positive results," the envoy stated, adding that Rwandan traders successfully signed trade deals with Chinese investors, leading to a notable increase in China's agricultural imports from Rwanda.

The event included high-level meetings and forums, providing a platform for participants to engage in discussions regarding economic policies, investment opportunities, and trade cooperation.

Along the margins of the main expo, the Rwandan delegation composed of Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and the Embassy held investment and tourism roadshows. These roadshows are aimed to provide a platform for engaging with investors and tour agents from China.

Desire Rusatira, the Head of Reinvestment and Investor Aftercare Department at RDB, expressed his enthusiasm about Rwanda's participation in the 3rd CAETE.

"Rwanda's presence in this expo is part of the country’s efforts to showcase the range of Rwandan products, as well as investment and tourism opportunities," he said. Rusatira further highlighted Rwanda's strategic location, stability, and business-friendly policies as key factors that have attracted investors from around the globe.

This is the right time to engage with Chinese stakeholders, Rusatira told media outlets at the expo. We are here to develop more connections for trade, investment and tourism with Chinese investors and tourists.

The Rwanda delegation is also utilizing the platform to promote its tourism offerings through the Visit Rwanda campaign, with the aim of attracting more Chinese tourists to visit the country.

“Rwanda is open for tourism and we are excited to welcome the Chinese tourists to experience our rich culture, green national parks and unique wildlife, and be part of some of the world’s most exciting sporting events,” Rusatira said.

The country’s unique attractions and experiences have proven successful in attracting visitors from around the globe. Rwanda has been consistently rated among the top destinations in Africa and worldwide by numerous international tour agencies.

Rwandan companies that participated were delighted with the opportunity to foster relationships with potential partners, customers, and investors.The exhibitors expressed their gratitude for the CAETE platform, as it offered them the opportunity to expand their reach and access the Chinese market. This comes after a challenging period of three years due to the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gatera Andrew, a Rwandan coffee exporter noted: "I have been participating in various Chinese exhibitions in the past, but due to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we were unable to attend any events for the past three years. This expo presented to us a good opportunity to reconnect, assess the Chinese market, gain valuable insights, and establish significant connections."

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