According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) Annual Report, the revenue growth occurred despite a 2% decrease in production volume, dropping from more than 39,000 tonnes to 38,460 tonnes. The success is attributed to improved tea quality and favourable global market prices.
"Certain tea clones exhibit site-specific adaptation, allowing us to produce exceptional quality," the report reads.
Clones such as TRFK301/4, TRFK475, and TRFK303/577 were identified as top performers, contributing to productivity gains.
The average price per kilogram of tea was $2.98, up from $2.76 the previous year.
Data from the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) indicates that Rwanda's tea was exported to 47 countries during 2023/2024.
The leading market for Rwandan tea was Pakistan, which imported over 9,194 tonnes, accounting for nearly 24% of the total export volume. This generated approximately $27.5 million.
The United Kingdom followed closely, purchasing 5,669 tonnes, or 14.7% of the total volume, for just over $17 million. Other major buyers included Egypt, which imported 4,259 tonnes (11% of the total) valued at $12.7 million; Kazakhstan, which took 3,996 tonnes (10.3%) for $11.9 million; and Ireland, which purchased 3,352 tonnes (8.7%) for $10 million.
Other markets included the United Arab Emirates, which bought 1,366 tonnes (3.5%) worth around $4 million, Russia with 1,270 tonnes (3.3%) for $3.8 million, and Sudan with 1,154 tonnes (3%) valued at $3.4 million. Turkey and India were also notable buyers, importing 1,049 tonnes (2.7%) and 823 tonnes (2.1%), respectively, generating $3 million and $2.4 million in revenue.
In contrast, Rwanda's coffee export revenue experienced a significant decline of 32.1%, dropping to $78.71 million in 2023/2024. Export volumes also fell by 17.9%, reflecting challenges such as climate variability, global price fluctuations, and production inefficiencies.
The report highlights efforts to address these challenges, including the development of 44 new coffee hybrids and 28 fixed varieties aimed at improving yields and resilience.
"The most promising hybrids are now positioned to meet both farmer and market requirements, offering a path to increased incomes and competitiveness," the report states.
To address soil nutrient variability and improve coffee productivity, MINAGRI implemented site-specific fertilizer recommendations across key coffee-growing regions. Additionally, 3,500 kilograms of genetically pure coffee seeds were distributed, with an expected yield of about 14.7 million seedlings.
These initiatives align with the government's NST1 target of increasing coffee yields from 2.8 kilograms per tree to at least 4 kilograms per tree.
The contrasting performances of tea and coffee exports highlight the need for tailored strategies in Rwanda's agricultural sector.
"Educating farmers on the right dosage, source, placement, and timing of fertilizer application will maximize crop responses and ensure a positive return on investment," the report emphasizes.
Dr. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in the sector's future.
"With continued collaboration and support, we will overcome challenges and achieve our shared vision for agricultural transformation," he wrote in the report's foreword.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/business/article/rwanda-s-tea-export-revenue-soars
