“Made in Rwanda” Exports to DRC Surge Amid Border Stabilisation and Trade Realignment

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Rwanda’s exports of domestically manufactured goods to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) soared by over 42% in April 2025 compared to the same period last year, signalling a robust revival in cross-border trade.

According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), exports to the DRC climbed from USD 14.89 million in April 2024 to USD 21.23 million in April 2025, marking a major shift from Rwanda’s historical reliance on re-exports—goods imported into Rwanda and then sold onward, typically to eastern Congo.

This rise in exports is largely attributed to the recent stabilisation of conflict zones in eastern DRC, particularly North and South Kivu, where years of militia activity and government-related insecurity had hampered trade. As rebel groups like M23 seized control earlier this year, they also streamlined cross-border taxation, simplifying clearance procedures for Rwandan traders moving goods into cities like Goma and Bukavu—urban centers with a combined population nearing 5 million, or about 30% of Rwanda’s population.

Traders report that previously cumbersome tax procedures in Goma have been replaced by a single tax office, reducing overhead and speeding up the flow of goods. However, deeper into the Congo—toward places like Masisi or Rutshuru—challenges remain, with traders still encountering multiple checkpoints and bribes.

The improved security and reduced trade barriers have allowed Rwandan manufacturers to increase exports of goods such as foodstuffs, beverages, building materials, and household products. These developments align with Rwanda’s broader “Made in Rwanda” initiative, which aims to reduce import dependency and promote domestic industry.

Interestingly, while “Made in Rwanda” exports grew, re-exports to DRC fell by 12.5%, dropping from USD 47.2 million to USD 41.29 million, indicating a shift toward a more sustainable, locally driven export model. In contrast, trade with Burundi plummeted. Re-exports to Burundi declined sharply by 85.6%, from USD 0.57 million in April 2024 to USD 0.08 million in April 2025, pushing it from Rwanda’s #2 to #7 re-export destination. Analysts attribute the slump to border closures, logistical issues, or strained political relations.

Globally, Rwanda’s trade partnerships also evolved. The United States, Uganda, and Sweden entered the top 10 export destinations in April 2025, replacing Hong Kong, Singapore, and Egypt. U.S. imports of Rwandan goods, for example, reached USD 3.24 million, making it Rwanda’s #6 export market.

Despite the strong performance in specific markets, Rwanda’s total formal trade volume fell by more than 28%—from USD 742.23 million in April 2024 to USD 529.16 million in April 2025. Exports dropped from USD 205.96 million to USD 148.51 million, and imports declined from USD 536.27 million to USD 380.64 million.

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Nonetheless, Rwanda’s trade deficit narrowed considerably—from USD 330.31 million to USD 232.13 million, a 29% reduction. This improvement reflects targeted efforts to cut non-essential imports and boost domestic production, consistent with national strategies to enhance economic resilience and preserve foreign reserves.

As regional stability improves and Rwanda adjusts its trade model, future growth will depend on maintaining peace, increasing product competitiveness, and diversifying export markets.