The exhibition, running from February 22 to March 2, 2025, was officially inaugurated by French President Emmanuel Macron.
This year, 28 Rwandan companies registered, with 20 making it to the event up from 18 that participated last year, a testament to the increasing participation of Rwandan businesses in international trade fairs.
'This is the fourth time Rwanda has participated in the Paris International Agricultural Show, which brings together numerous exhibitors from around the world. We are pleased that Rwandans have also taken part in this event,' Amb. Nkulikiyimfura said.
The envoy praised the exhibitors for their dedication, noting that several had already secured contracts with French distributors.
'We appreciate their presence, as they showcased excellent products, and many successfully signed contracts. Those we engaged with expressed great satisfaction with the benefits they are gaining from this exhibition,' he added.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura also acknowledged the improvement in marketing efforts compared to previous years, highlighting the exhibitors' proactive approach in reaching out to distributors and importers.
The ambassador expressed confidence in the future of Rwandan exports in Europe and thanked RDB, NAEB, and the embassy team for their support in facilitating Rwanda's participation.
Among the exhibitors, Nzungize Keza Anita, Sales and Marketing Manager at COOPAC LTD, a coffee export company, is attending for the fourth time since 2022.
She emphasized the event's significance in meeting consumers and expanding their market reach. She also expressed gratitude to the Rwandan government, NAEB, and the Rwandan Embassy in France for their support in ensuring a seamless experience at the exhibition.
Niyindorera Guershom, CEO of Aubin Produce International, shared his excitement about showcasing beetroot wine and honey-based liquor, which have drawn significant attention from French consumers.
'This country has thousands of varieties of wine, but our product gains attention whenever we bring it here. People appreciate the honey liquor because it retains the natural honey taste, attracting many consumers and helping us expand our market reach,' he noted.
The company, which also exports honey and avocado oil, views the trade fair as a vital networking platform to connect with potential buyers. He also thanked RwandAir for its role in facilitating the transportation of products.
Sangwa Jean Roger, founder of Iwacu Boutique, an online marketplace specializing in Rwandan agricultural products, highlighted how the platform responds to consumer demands for authentic Rwandan products.
'We were delighted to engage with Rwandan exporters and will help bring their products to a wider market. Iwacu means 'home' and reflects the idea of making Rwandans abroad and others revive memories of the boutiques they shopped at back home,' he said.
Ann Christin Ishimwe, Head of Sales & Marketing at Kinazi Cassava Plant Ltd, emphasized the trade fair's importance in promoting their high-quality cassava flour. She noted that securing contracts with distributors would enable their products to reach European consumers and thanked the government for its continuous support in promoting Rwandan exports.
Niwemugore Djamilla from 3N Farms Ltd expressed excitement about showcasing Nikezz, a pure honey brand sourced from Rwanda's natural forests. 'We are glad to be here and thank the government of Rwanda for facilitating our participation,' she stated.
Ritha Umutoni, Founder and CEO of RIXU Rwanda Coffee, participating for the third time, cited valuable engagements with coffee traders, distributors, and consumers. She remained optimistic about securing new deals and praised Rwanda's leadership for empowering women entrepreneurs to enter international markets confidently.
Meanwhile, Rukemampunzi Willy from Mahembe Coffee, attending for the fourth time, commended the opportunity to connect with new distributors and importers, fostering optimism for increased sales. He emphasized the importance of working closely with local farmers to ensure quality coffee production and thanked the organizers for facilitating Rwanda's presence at the event.
With increasing participation and positive outcomes, Rwandan exhibitors remain confident in their ability to expand their footprint in international markets. As Rwanda continues to position itself as a key player in the global agricultural sector, events like the Paris International Agricultural Show serve as crucial platforms for growth, trade, and market expansion.
Karirima Aimable Ngarambe
