Rwanda And UAE Bilateral Trade Hits $1.1 Billion, Eyes On Future Growth

Rwanda and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reached a significant milestone in their bilateral trade relations, with trade volumes surpassing the US$1.1 billion mark in 2023, according to the UAE Ministry of Economy. This achievement underscores the deepening ties between the two nations, with Rwanda keen on expanding these relations into new and advanced sectors, including those associated with the fourth industrial revolution. John Mirenge, Ambassador of Rwanda to the UAE, shared these insights during an interview at the Rwandan Embassy in Abu Dhabi.

The ambassador highlighted that the UAE stands as Rwanda's foremost trade partner, with a variety of Rwandan products, particularly from the horticulture sector, being exported to the UAE. Currently, Rwanda exports around 60 tonnes of horticultural products to the UAE on a weekly basis, a figure expected to rise. This growth is supported by significant partnerships with major UAE retailers, enhancing the export volume to the UAE and other Gulf countries.

Mirenge noted that 26 Rwandan companies are now operating in Dubai, especially within the logistics sector. He emphasized the opportunities available across all emirates of the UAE for Rwandan businesses to grow and for new enterprises to emerge. Furthermore, over 100 Rwandan companies are actively trading on Dubuy.com, DP World’s digital B2B e-marketplace, showcasing popular commodities like coffee and tea.

In terms of logistics, DP World’s expansion of its facilities in Kigali and RwandAir’s increased operations between Rwanda and the UAE are notable developments. RwandAir now operates three flights a week between Sharjah and Kigali, focusing on agricultural exports from Kigali and importing general cargo into Rwanda.

From 2000 to 2023, 14 UAE companies have committed to investments exceeding US$320 million in Rwanda across various sectors including logistics, hospitality, and agriculture. Ambassador Mirenge encouraged further exploration of Rwanda’s investment-friendly environment by UAE companies.

Looking towards future cooperation, Mirenge underscored the importance of collaboration in areas like artificial intelligence and space technology through partnerships between both countries’ centres for the fourth industrial revolution and space agencies. Additionally, sustainable environmental initiatives focusing on urbanisation and renewable energy are key areas of mutual interest.

The education sector also presents opportunities for collaboration, with scholarships offered by the UAE government enabling Rwandan students to study in UAE universities and secure employment within the region. Moreover, sports collaborations are emerging as a new avenue for partnership, highlighted by Rwanda's participation in the Tour of Sharjah cycling race.

This growing partnership between Rwanda and the UAE reflects a mutual commitment to enhancing bilateral trade and exploring new sectors for cooperation. With both nations looking towards innovative technologies and sustainable development, this relationship is set to strengthen further in the coming years.

With inputs from WAM