The on-going exhibition is organized by PSF’s chamber of Agriculture. It is currently held in Rusizi district, where 40 local exhibitors are showcasing a number of products from the agricultural sector.
The Exhibition that started on the 14th march will last three days; and is aimed at identifying new markets for Rwanda agricultural products.
While opening the exhibition, Rusizi Mayor; Harelimana Frederic assured Rwanda exporters of new storage facilities to be constructed at the border as these will facilitate in storing local goods especially the perishable goods.
“Some exporters have always raised the issue of lack of storage facilities on this border. However, we are going to discuss this with other stakeholders to construct these warehouses,” He said
The agriculture exhibition follows another Agribusiness trade fair that was held in Goma, DRC in 2016 in partnership with the Farmers’ association in DRC. Exhibitors are expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize the cooperation between exporters of the countries.
Callixte Kanamugire the Chief Advocacy Officer, PSF mentioned that the Federation is currently surveying other potential markets in different countries where Rwandan products can be exported.
“We cannot close the trade deficit gap unless we promote exports. We organize these events to facilitate our traders that’s why we will continue identifying other external markets for Rwandan products,” he said while addressing exhibitors.
Christine Murebwayire; one of the exhibitors and chairperson of Agriculture chamber noted that DRC possesses an enormous market potential for Rwandan exports.
However, adding that it’s imperative for Rwandan exporters to produce quality goods.
“DRC has a huge market for our exports. Most of our exhibitors have sold-off all their products and they’re stocking more. We expect at the end to sign agreements with Congolese to formalize our trade,” she said
The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda recently launched the COMESA Simplified Trade Regime (STR) which allow small-scale traders to import products not exceeding the value of $2,000 duty-free.
The STR programme was initiated by COMESA to help increase trade among small-scale cross-border traders dealing in small quantities of goods. This programme aims to simplify clearing procedures as well as reduce the cost of trading by making it possible for the small-scale cross-border trader’s consignments to benefit from the removal of Customs Duty (COMESA Preferential Treatment)
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