On 29 November 2021, Rwanda signed with China the Protocol to Export Stevia from Rwanda to China. 

This protocol agreement between the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources of the Republic of Rwanda and the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC) outlining the phytosanitary requirements was signed by Ambassador James Kimonyo on behalf of Rwanda and by Hon. Ni Yuefeng, Minister and Secretary of CPC Committee of the GACC on behalf of China. 

Speaking after the signing, Ambassador James Kimonyo said that the signing of this protocol is yet another milestone in the excellent relations between the Republic of Rwanda and the People's Republic of China, which were established 50 years ago. 

Stevia is a high quality crop of which its extract is a healthy zero-calorie natural sweetener and sugar substitute. The extract from stevia leaves is a white powder that is about 300 times sweeter than sugar and is used in the beverage and food industry. Rwanda ‘s fertile and diverse terrain offers ideal conditions for stevia crop; with average elevation (1400-2000m), soil and climate conditions, Rwanda is able to achieve naturally high yields with sustainable and well distributed rainfalls throughout the year.

The signing of this stevia protocol comes after the signing of a number of other agreements between Rwanda and China including the protocol for the export of dried chilli, which was signed in March 2021. 

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