The October 2024 report highlights a significant shift in Rwanda's import dynamics, with imports from Kenya soaring to $121.45 millionâ€"a staggering 241.55% increase compared to September 2024 and a 361.43% rise year-on-year.
The growth propelled Kenya to the second spot among Rwanda's top import partners, contributing 19.29% of total imports.
Meanwhile, Tanzania experienced a notable decline, with its exports to Rwanda plummeting by 39.04% month-on-month to $57.38 million, representing just 9.11% of Rwanda's total imports.
Tanzania's sharp drop from its previously dominant position indicates a significant shift in Rwanda's import landscape, as it has long been Rwanda's primary partner due to its geographical proximity and the role of the Dar es Salaam port.
Kenya's performance has been attributed to increased trade in key commodities such as food products and manufactured goods, sectors in which it is highly competitive. By contrast, Tanzania's decline reflects reduced trade volumes in categories like crude materials and other traditional export items.
China remains Rwanda's top import partner, supplying $142.08 million worth of goods in October 2024. However, Kenya's surge underscores its growing role in the regional trade landscape.
The shift also highlights Kenya's robust trade infrastructure and strong bilateral relations with Rwanda. Enhanced trade agreements, improved logistics, and competitive pricing are likely contributing factors to Kenya's rise.
Other notable import partners include India, the United Arab Emirates, Uganda, Malaysia, Belgium, Egypt, and Japan.
In the export market, the United Arab Emirates led as the largest destination, accounting for 67.44% of exports, despite a 15% month-on-month decline. Other notable export partners include the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Luxembourg, and Uganda.
In October 2024, Rwanda's trade deficit stood at $363.65 million, reflecting a 7.37% decrease compared to September 2024 but an 11.89% increase compared to October 2023.
Rwanda's total exports displayed a mixed performance during the same month. While exports declined by 12.29% month-on-month, they showed a remarkable 45.49% increase year-on-year. Domestic exports followed a similar pattern, with a 15.75% month-on-month decline but an impressive 61.81% rise year-on-year. Meanwhile, re-exports recorded modest growth, increasing by 1.63% month-on-month and 8.87% year-on-year.
Among export sectors, animal and vegetable oils, fats, and waxes stood out with exceptional growth, registering a 42.43% increase month-on-month and a staggering 6347.55% increase year-on-year. Similarly, miscellaneous manufactured articles performed strongly, growing by 23.76% month-on-month and 57.26% year-on-year.
On the imports side, total imports experienced a slight decline of 1.92% month-on-month but rose significantly by 23.99% year-on-year. The food and live animals category contributed notably to this growth, increasing by 19.21% month-on-month and 22.00% year-on-year. Additionally, chemicals and related products exhibited robust performance, with imports rising by 21.42% month-on-month and 35.15% year-on-year.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/business/article/kenya-overtakes-tanzania-in-rwanda-s-import-market
