Africa (Commonwealth Union): On her first visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Rwandan High Commissioner Harerimana Fatou described the occasion as a significant milestone. She urged KCCI to foster bilateral trade and investment partnerships by connecting with the Rwanda Development Board to unlock mutual economic benefits.
“Though small in size, Rwanda is eager to collaborate with Pakistan. As an open market, Rwanda offers immense opportunities for Pakistani entrepreneurs to leverage its Free Trade Agreements across the African region,” Fatou remarked during her address.
The High Commissioner underscored the alignment between Pakistan’s “Look Africa Policy” and Rwanda’s potential as an investment destination. The High Commissioner highlighted sectors like mining and minerals as lucrative opportunities for Pakistani investors.
She emphasized Rwanda’s strong infrastructure for foreign businesses, including a highly skilled workforce, a secure business environment, and investor-friendly policies. “Starting a business in Rwanda is exceptionally easy; it can be completed online within two hours through the Rwanda Development Board. Additionally, visa-on-arrival facilities are available at all Rwandan airports,” she said.
The spotlight also shone on Rwanda’s thriving tourism sector, which generates 65% of the country’s budget revenue. Fatou noted that the nation draws two million tourists annually due to its scenic beauty, world-class hospitality, and high levels of security.
Fatou highlighted the potential in the tea trade, revealing that 45% of Pakistan’s tea imports come from Rwanda, albeit via Kenya. She urged Karachi’s business community to consider direct imports from Rwanda, which would streamline supply chains and benefit both economies.
“I’m here to connect you with Rwandan tea and coffee producers to facilitate direct exports from Kigali to Karachi,” Fatou announced. She also mentioned that Rwanda exports small quantities of minerals, vegetables, and beans, which could potentially expand for the Pakistani market.
In return, she suggested Pakistan could expand its exports of rice, cooking oil, and pharmaceuticals to Rwanda, noting that these products are currently imported in large volumes from India and China. “Why not source them from Pakistan instead?” she queried, inviting deeper trade engagement.
The High Commissioner’s visit highlighted Rwanda’s readiness to build robust economic bridges with Pakistan, laying the groundwork for fruitful collaboration.
