On 11th March 2021, the protocol on inspection and quarantine requirements for the export of dried chili pepper was signed between Rwanda and China.  

This protocol agreement between the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources of Rwanda the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China was signed by Ambassador James Kimonyo on behalf of Rwanda. 

Speaking after the signing ceremony, Ambassador James Kimonyo said that the signing of this protocol is yet another proof of the excellent relations between Rwanda and the People's Republic of China, which are based on mutual trust and win-win cooperation. He added that a number of Rwandan companies have already signed cooperation agreements with Chinese buyers of dried chili and were eagerly waiting for the signing of this protocol.

The signing of this protocol is expected to greatly increase the volume of Rwandan exports to China. Rwandan companies were already exporting processed chili (chili paste) through partnership with Alibaba's Hema group and the addition of dried chili to products allowed into the Chinese market is a big win for Rwandan chili growers as China is the biggest consumer of chili in the world with more than 500 million people consuming spicy food on daily basis.  

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