Doing Business with Rwanda

A comprehensive guide to doing business, exporting, investing, and manufacturing in Rwanda.

Foreign Direct Investment with the International Trade Council / Company Incorporation / Company Formation

Albanian Investment Development Agency

Tel: +355 42 251 001
Email: info@aida.gov.al
Web: www.aida.gov.al

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General Directorate of Customs

Albania General Directorate of Customs - International Trade Council

 

Tel: +355 42 253 820
Email: helpdesk.dpd@dogana.gov.al
Web: www.dogana.gov.al

National Chamber of Commerce

Albanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Albanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry - International Trade Council

Tel: +355 45 800 932
Email: cci.tirana@cci.al
Web: www.cci.al

Ministry of Economy Information from the International Trade Council - a Peak-body - international chamber of commerce

Ministry of Finance and Economy, Albania

  • Type of Government: Presidential republic
  • Population: Approximately 13 million
  • GDP: Around $12 billion USD
  • Corporate Tax Rate: 30%
  • Personal Income Tax Rate: Progressive, up to 30%
  • Major Exports: Coffee, tea, minerals, pyrethrum
  • Major Imports: Machinery, equipment, foodstuffs, construction materials

Exporting goods to Rwanda involves several key steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

  1. Research Market Requirements

    • Understand Rwanda’s import regulations and product standards.
  2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

    • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code to understand tariffs and regulations.
  3. Prepare Documentation

    • Gather necessary export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.
  4. Check Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers

    • Verify any tariffs and ensure compliance with Rwanda’s non-tariff measures.
  5. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

    • Choose a logistics provider experienced in shipping to Rwanda.
  6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

    • Ensure your products meet local labeling and packaging standards.
  7. Arrange for Insurance

    • Secure insurance to cover potential shipping risks.
  8. Submit Customs Declaration

    • Work with your freight forwarder to submit the necessary customs declaration.
  9. Pay Applicable Duties and Taxes

    • Calculate and pay any required import duties and taxes.
  10. Track and Confirm Delivery

    • Monitor the shipment to ensure it reaches the destination safely.

Key Contacts

  • Rwanda Revenue Authority
  • Ministry of Trade and Industry

Importing goods into Rwanda involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Research Import Regulations

    • Familiarize yourself with Rwanda’s import laws and product-specific regulations.
  2. Obtain Necessary Licenses

    • Determine if your products require special import licenses or permits.
  3. Classify Your Goods

    • Identify the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to understand tariffs and duties.
  4. Prepare Documentation

    • Gather required documents: commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificate of origin.
  5. Choose a Customs Broker

    • Hire a licensed customs broker to assist with the import process.
  6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Standards

    • Ensure products meet local labeling and packaging requirements.
  7. Submit Customs Declaration

    • File a customs declaration with the Rwanda Revenue Authority.
  8. Pay Duties and Taxes

    • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties and taxes.
  9. Arrange for Transportation and Delivery

    • Coordinate with a logistics provider to transport goods to their final destination.
  10. Track and Confirm Receipt

    • Monitor shipment progress and confirm delivery upon arrival.

Key Contacts

  • Rwanda Revenue Authority
  • Ministry of Trade and Industry

Incorporating a company in Rwanda involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Choose a Business Structure

    • Decide on the type of company, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
  2. Reserve a Company Name

    • Ensure the company name is unique and not already registered.
  3. Prepare Incorporation Documents

    • Draft the Articles of Association and other necessary documents.
  4. Register the Company

    • Submit incorporation documents to the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
  5. Obtain a Tax Identification Number

    • Register for taxation with the Rwanda Revenue Authority.
  6. Open a Bank Account

    • Open a corporate bank account in Rwanda to manage finances.
  7. Register for VAT (if applicable)

    • Apply for VAT registration if your business activities require it.
  8. Obtain Necessary Licenses

    • Apply for any industry-specific licenses required for your business.

Costs

  • Registration Fee: Varies depending on the type and size of the company.

Key Contacts

  • Rwanda Development Board (RDB)
  • Rwanda Revenue Authority

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Rwanda involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Conduct a Feasibility Study

    • Analyze market demand, location, and resource availability.
  2. Choose a Business Structure

    • Decide on the type of business entity, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
  3. Register the Company

    • Register your business with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
  4. Secure Financing

    • Arrange funding through loans or investors.
  5. Select a Location

    • Choose an industrial area with access to infrastructure and resources.
  6. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

    • Apply for construction permits, environmental clearances, and industry-specific licenses.
  7. Design and Construct the Facility

    • Hire architects and contractors to design and build the plant.
  8. Purchase and Install Equipment

    • Acquire machinery and ensure it meets safety and operational standards.
  9. Hire and Train Employees

    • Recruit skilled workers and provide necessary training.
  10. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

    • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors.

Key Contacts

  • Rwanda Development Board (RDB)
  • Ministry of Trade and Industry

Registering a trademark in Rwanda involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Conduct a Trademark Search

    • Ensure your trademark is unique by searching existing trademarks in Rwanda.
  2. Prepare Your Application
    • Gather necessary details, including the trademark design and the list of goods/services.
  3. Submit the Application

    • File your application with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
  4. Pay the Application Fee

    • Pay the required fees for trademark registration.
  5. Application Examination

    • The RDB will examine the application for compliance and potential conflicts.
  6. Publication for Opposition

    • If approved, the trademark is published for a period during which others can oppose it.
  7. Receive Registration Certificate

    • If no oppositions are filed, you receive the official trademark registration certificate.

Costs

  • Application Fee: Varies depending on the specifics of the trademark.

Key Contacts

  • Rwanda Development Board (RDB)

Resolving commercial disputes in Rwanda involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Consult Legal Counsel

    • Engage a lawyer experienced in Rwandan commercial law for guidance.
  2. Attempt Negotiation

    • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation with the other party.
  3. Mediation

    • Consider mediation with a neutral third party to facilitate a resolution.
  4. Arbitration

    • Use arbitration for a binding resolution if both parties agree. Rwanda supports both domestic and international arbitration.
  5. Litigation

    • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the Rwandan commercial court system. Prepare for a formal legal process.
  6. Enforcement of Judgments

    • Ensure the decision is enforced through the relevant authorities.

Costs

  • Legal Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and length of the dispute.
  • Court Fees: Required for litigation and depend on the case specifics.

Key Contacts

When considering business in Rwanda, it’s important to understand various factors:

Social and Cultural Factors

  • Language: Kinyarwanda, French, and English are official languages. English is commonly used in business.
  • Business Etiquette: Building personal relationships is important. Punctuality and formal attire are valued.

Political Factors

  • Government: Stable presidential republic.
  • Stability: Known for political stability and strong governance.

Economic Factors

  • Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF).
  • Key Industries: Agriculture, tourism, mining, and services.

Foreign Exchange

  • Exchange Rate: The RWF is relatively stable, but it’s essential to monitor currency fluctuations.
  • Regulations: Foreign exchange controls are in place; compliance with local regulations is necessary.

Rule of Law

  • Legal System: Based on civil law; known for effective enforcement.
  • Intellectual Property: Strong protections for intellectual property rights.

Infrastructure

  • Transport: Developing network of roads, railways, and air transport.
  • Utilities: Reliable energy and water supply, with ongoing improvements.

Key Contacts

  • Rwanda Development Board (RDB)
  • National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda

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