The Kigali International Trade Fair has once again demonstrated the growing collaboration between the government and the private sector in advancing an economy driven by locally made products. Organized by the Private Sector Federation in partnership with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the exhibition has served as a key platform to showcase progress made across various sectors of trade and industry.
A total of 475 exhibitors participated in this 28th edition, including 378 local businesses and 97 international ones. The fair provided a unique opportunity to highlight Rwanda’s potential as a reliable investment destination. Local industries demonstrated their capacity to offer solutions that reduce dependence on imports by showcasing locally produced goods such as garments, construction materials, and processed food products.
In her opening remarks, Jeanne Francoise Mubiligi, Chairperson of the Private Sector Federation, expressed appreciation to all participants and noted an increase in the number of exhibitors compared to previous editions. She highlighted the uniqueness of this year’s event, particularly the innovative products created by youth, including wood-based artworks and electric vehicles. She described the fair as impressive and a clear reflection of the growing ability to promote Made in Rwanda products. She also emphasized the importance of using this platform to expand market access, exchange ideas, and establish sustainable partnerships among private and public stakeholders.
Antoine Marie Kajangwe, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry, underlined the fair’s critical role in promoting an industrial-based economy. He explained that the government is committed to supporting local industries to replace imported goods with locally manufactured ones. According to him, this trade fair provides a space that brings together key players in trade and industry development, including private sector actors, government agencies, and the media, which is vital for informing citizens about national economic efforts.
He further emphasized the significance of having a wide range of exhibitors, including those in apparel manufacturing, agriculture, agro-processing, and construction materials. He pointed out that this reflects Rwanda’s steady progress toward self-reliance in production. He also mentioned the fair’s contribution to job creation, tax revenue, and broad-based economic empowerment.
The trade fair has also been a platform for young innovators to showcase their projects and creative works, ranging from technology solutions to crafts, reflecting the growing role of youth in the national economy. Their presence highlighted how young people are increasingly tapping into local opportunities to create value and build sustainable businesses.
Officials noted that the trade fair aligns with Rwanda’s long-term development goals, as outlined in its national vision, by promoting collaboration between public and private sectors, increasing productivity, and encouraging entrepreneurship.
An award ceremony to recognize the best exhibitor is scheduled for August 14, 2025. The event will run until August 17, 2025, and is open daily from 9 AM to 10 PM.
