Rwandan high commissioner seeks direct trade ties

Describing her maiden visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) as a 'milestone', High Commissioner of Rwanda, Harerimana Fatou, urged the KCCI to establish and enhance bilateral trade and investment relations with Rwanda by connecting with the Rwanda Development Board.

Speaking at a meeting during her visit to KCCI, she said, "Despite being a small country, Rwanda is keenly looking forward to working together with Pakistan. As an open market, Rwanda can be easily accessed, and Pakistani businessmen can benefit from Rwanda's Free Trade Agreements with many countries in the African region."

Referring to the Pakistani government's eagerness to enhance trade in Africa under the "Look Africa Policy," the Rwandan high commissioner said Rwanda presents an ideal opportunity for Pakistani investors to explore sectors like mines and minerals.

She highlighted Rwanda's excellent manpower, secure environment, and liberal policies that ensure a conducive atmosphere for foreign investors.

"Opening a business in Rwanda is very easy and can be done online within two hours through the Rwanda Development Board. Additionally, visa-on-arrival facilities are also available at Rwandan airports," she explained.

Highlighting Rwanda's thriving tourism sector, which contributes 65% of the country's budget revenue, she pointed out that Rwanda attracts around two million tourists annually due to its security, excellent customer service, beautiful hotels, and scenic hills.

Commenting on Pakistan's tea imports, she revealed that 45% of tea arriving in Pakistan originates from Rwanda but is routed through Kenya.

"The business community of Karachi must look into the possibility of directly importing tea from Rwanda instead of Kenya. I am here to connect you with Rwandan tea and coffee producers to promote direct exports from Kigali to Karachi," she said. She added that Rwanda also exports minerals, vegetables, and beans in small quantities, which could be increased. On the other hand, Pakistan exports rice, cooking oil, and pharmaceuticals in smaller amounts to Rwanda.

"We import these products in large quantities from India and China. Why not source them from Pakistan?" she questioned.