The Government of Rwanda has deployed a group of traders to the United Kingdom in a strategic move to secure new markets for fruits and vegetables, following heavy losses caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The initiative comes after exporters who relied on Middle Eastern markets faced significant setbacks due to the closure of key airports, which halted the transportation of fresh produce. As a result, farmers and exporters have been left struggling with unsold goods and financial losses.
Local avocado farmers say their businesses were thriving before the crisis, but demand has sharply declined as exporters lost access to their primary markets. Many are now unable to sell their produce, leading to spoilage and reduced incomes.
One farmer, Bizimana Abel, explained that he previously had a reliable buyer who exported his avocados abroad. However, since the conflict began, the buyer has stopped purchasing due to a lack of export routes, leaving the farmer with perishable goods and no income.
Despite the challenges, traders have welcomed the government’s intervention, noting that it demonstrates concern for their situation. The National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) is working closely with exporters to explore alternative markets, particularly in Europe.
Marie Ange Claudine Ingabire, an exporter, confirmed that NAEB is helping connect traders with buyers in countries like the United Kingdom, offering new opportunities to sustain their businesses.
According to NAEB officials, at least 26 traders have been selected to participate in this market expansion mission. The agency emphasized that the crisis has highlighted the risks of relying heavily on a single export destination, particularly for products like avocados.
Before the disruption, several companies had prepared to export over 50 tonnes of avocados, but shipments were canceled, resulting in major financial losses. In just two weeks since the conflict began, exporters are estimated to have lost over Rwf 100 million.
Authorities also see this as an opportunity to promote value addition within Rwanda. Instead of exporting raw produce, efforts are being made to process products locally, such as extracting avocado oil, which can fetch higher prices on international markets.
The United Kingdom remains a key destination for Rwanda’s agricultural exports, accounting for between 30% and 40% of products such as French beans, avocados, and chili peppers.
Rwanda continues to export a wide range of agricultural goods globally, including coffee, tea, fruits, and vegetables, which are among the country’s top sources of foreign exchange. According to recent data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), exports generated over $2 billion in 2025.
This latest move signals Rwanda’s commitment to protecting its agricultural sector and ensuring resilience in the face of global disruptions.
