Visiting Rwanda is critical for those considering doing business in the country.  We strongly encourage visitors to pay a courtesy call on the U.S. Embassy’s Economic and Commercial Section for the latest information and market developments.  The Embassy provides a variety of services to assist U.S. firms with market entry.  These services include due diligence, initial market checks, company profiles, and more.  For assistance, please contact the Economic and Commercial Section by email at KigaliEcon@state.gov.  Interested parties should also reach out to their local Export Assistance Centers.  The American business community in Rwanda is well-established and represents a variety of sectors.  Founded in 2019, the American Chamber of Commerce-Rwanda had 57 members as of March 2023.

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is responsible for promoting investment and facilitating market entry for investors.  The RDB is a good place to start when considering establishing a business in Rwanda.  The RDB offers a range of services to potential investors, including assistance with acquiring licenses, certificates, approvals, authorizations, and permits required by law to set up and operate a business enterprise in Rwanda.  Any agreements negotiated with RDB involving tax issues should be separately and fully approved by RRA before being finalized to improve enforceability of tax provisions.  The Rwandan Private Sector Federation, a public-private partnership umbrella organization with strong ties to the government, East African Business Council, Rwanda Bankers’ Association, and the Rwanda Tours & Travel Association can also provide information on potential local business partners.  Consider connecting with the American Chamber of Commerce in Rwanda via their website or Facebook.