The first session of the India-Rwanda Joint Trade Committee (JTC) was held in New Delhi on July 30–31, 2026. During the meeting, both countries discussed enhancing bilateral trade and investment, trade diversification, and addressing logistics-related challenges. The Indian delegation was led by Joint Secretary Mr. Amit Kumar, while the Rwandan delegation was led by Director General Virgile Rwanyagatare.
Major items exported from India to Rwanda include pharmaceutical and biological products, two- and three-wheelers, industrial and electrical machinery, oil cake, and iron and steel products; whereas items exported from Rwanda to India include lead, spices, essential oils, copper, precious and semi-precious stones, processed agricultural products, and minerals. Both sides agreed to diversify trade, strengthen ties, and resolve issues related to market access.
India explored the potential to boost exports to Rwanda in sectors such as engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, textiles, and marine products. India is the largest source of Rwanda’s pharmaceutical imports, accounting for a share of approximately 24.5 percent. Rwanda highlighted the potential for exporting items such as chili, coffee, tea, avocados, essential oils, minerals, and precious stones to India. Both countries also discussed cooperation regarding the harmonization of standards and capacity building.
Rwanda noted that India is its second-largest foreign investor, with investment opportunities available in sectors such as mining, agro-processing, ICT, manufacturing, health, and tourism. Both countries agreed to cooperate on promoting investment, exchanging trade programs, and enhancing access to regional markets.
Both sides identified several priority areas for regional cooperation. India expressed interest in strengthening cooperation regarding Rwanda’s tin, tungsten, and tantalum resources—key critical minerals. This entails institutional collaboration between the Geological Survey of India and the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board. India also proposed the recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia and the enhancement of cooperation in traditional medicine.
The discussions also explored cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, agro-processing, textiles, green mobility, digital infrastructure, fintech, cybersecurity, and renewable energy. India offered to continue supporting Rwanda’s capacity building through initiatives like ITEC, Study in India, and Skill India.
Extensive discussions regarding the arrangements took place at the venue. Commerce Secretary Mr. Rajesh Agrawal emphasized strengthening wholesale trade and initiating work on consultancy-related roles. The minutes of the meeting were signed on July 31, 2026, and it was decided to hold the next session in Rwanda a year later.
(PIB)
