• Rwanda and Brazil signed a memorandum of understanding to promote trade and facilitate investment.

• Brazil’s export agency APEX-Brasil and Rwanda’s Private Sector Federation signed a separate cooperation agreement.

• Rwanda posted 11.8% economic growth in the third quarter of 2025, supporting its investment appeal.

Rwanda and Brazil signed a memorandum of understanding establishing a structured framework for cooperation in trade promotion, investment facilitation, trade missions, and collaboration in priority sectors.

In addition, the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency, APEX-Brasil, signed a memorandum of understanding with the Rwanda Private Sector Federation. The agreement aims to strengthen institutional and private-sector cooperation between the two countries.

A Forum Dedicated to Business Opportunities

Authorities signed the agreements on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, during the Rwanda–Brazil Economic Cooperation Forum, according to a statement from the Rwanda Development Board. Organizers said the forum aims to explore opportunities in trade, investment, and private-sector collaboration.

The Rwanda Development Board did not detail specific mechanisms to boost trade and investment. However, its Chief Executive Officer, Jean-Guy Afrika, said local media quoted him as stating that the forum aims to connect companies, identify projects, and create value-generating investment channels for both countries.

“Brazil brings global leadership in agribusiness, manufacturing, and large-scale energy,” Jean-Guy Afrika said. “Rwanda offers a stable, reform-driven investment environment, strategic access to East and Central African markets, and a fast-growing services and logistics sector.”

A Favorable Economic Context for Rwanda

The partnership comes as Rwanda has posted strong economic momentum in recent years. In the third quarter of 2025, the country recorded double-digit growth of 11.8%, driven mainly by services, agriculture, and industry.

In addition, Rwanda ranked ninth among Africa’s most attractive countries for multinationals and foreign investors in 2025, according to a ranking published in September 2025 by Italian consulting firm The European House – Ambrosetti.

Rwanda and Brazil have maintained diplomatic relations since 1981. The opening of embassies in their respective capitals in 2023 expanded cooperation in areas including education, science and technology, economic and trade cooperation, agriculture, infrastructure, and health.

This article was initially published in French by Lydie Mobio

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de BERRY QUENUM