AGOA Extension Brings Relief and New Opportunities for Rwandan Exporters

Written by Janvier Nduwumukiza

Kigali, Rwanda — Rwandan exporters have welcomed the approval by the United States House of Representatives of a three-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), describing it as a major boost for the country’s trade and export sector.

AGOA allows eligible African countries, including Rwanda, to export thousands of products to the United States duty-free, helping local businesses compete in one of the world’s largest markets. The extension is expected to keep the trade framework in place until December 31, 2028, pending approval by the U.S. Senate.

Exporters say the move brings much-needed certainty and confidence, especially after months of uncertainty following the temporary lapse of AGOA in late 2025. Rwanda’s key export products under AGOA include coffee, tea, minerals, horticultural products, and some manufactured goods, which support thousands of jobs across the country.

Business leaders note that duty-free access helps reduce costs, attract buyers, and encourage long-term investment in export-oriented industries. “This extension gives exporters time to plan, expand production, and strengthen trade relationships with U.S. partners,” said one Kigali-based trade analyst.

Although Rwanda’s apparel exports remain excluded from AGOA benefits due to earlier policy disagreements, many exporters believe the extension still provides significant opportunities for growth in other sectors. Government officials have also indicated that discussions with U.S. partners will continue to ensure Rwanda fully benefits from trade cooperation.

The AGOA extension comes at a critical time as Rwanda works to diversify exports, increase foreign exchange earnings, and position itself as a regional trade hub. Analysts say continued access to the U.S. market could help stabilize export revenues and support smallholder farmers and manufacturers.

If passed by the U.S. Senate, the extension will reaffirm long-standing trade ties between Rwanda and the United States and strengthen Rwanda’s participation in global markets.

According to available data from USTR, U.S. goods and services trade with Rwanda totaled an estimated $368.9 million in 2024, up 5.2 percent ($18.1 million) from 2023.

U.S. goods exports to Rwanda in 2024 were $44.7 million, up 17.4 percent ($6.6 million) from 2023, while U.S. goods imports from Rwanda in 2024 totaled $30.2 million, down 19.9 percent ($7.5 million) from 2023.