Rwanda and Pakistan Set to Deepen Trade Relations Following Approval of Bilateral Cooperation Agreement
Rwanda and Pakistan are poised to expand their economic partnership after the Government of Pakistan approved a comprehensive bilateral trade cooperation agreement, paving the way for stronger commercial ties, increased investment and closer collaboration between the private sectors of both countries under Islamabad’s “Look Africa” initiative.
The approval marks a major step forward in efforts to strengthen economic relations between Kigali and Islamabad. Once formally signed, the agreement will establish a structured framework for promoting trade, facilitating investment and creating new business opportunities between the two countries.
The partnership will be implemented through Pakistan’s Look Africa Policy, an initiative launched in 2017 to boost economic engagement with African nations by expanding exports, attracting investment and fostering long-term commercial cooperation across the continent.
The agreement provides for the establishment of a Joint Trade Committee bringing together representatives from Rwanda and Pakistan to oversee implementation, strengthen dialogue between the two governments and promote closer cooperation between business communities.
Negotiations on the trade framework began in July 2018, when Pakistan first shared a draft agreement with Rwanda. Following several rounds of diplomatic consultations, ministerial discussions and virtual meetings, both countries agreed to replace the initial draft with a broader and more practical framework designed to reflect evolving economic priorities.
Pakistan’s approval now clears the way for the signing of the final agreement, which will encourage cooperation between private sector institutions, support participation in international trade fairs and business exhibitions, strengthen collaboration between chambers of commerce, establish a Joint Business Council, promote joint investment projects, facilitate the exchange of commercial information and address non-tariff barriers affecting bilateral trade.
The agreement aligns with Rwanda’s ambition to strengthen its position as a regional trade and investment hub. With one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies and a business-friendly investment climate, Rwanda has increasingly become an attractive gateway for international companies seeking access to African markets.
Relations between Rwanda and Pakistan have continued to expand beyond trade. The two countries cooperate in education, political consultations, diplomacy, defence and security, tourism and other areas of mutual interest.
In April 2026, Rwanda showcased its tourism potential at the Pakistan International Tourism Expo, promoting the country’s unique attractions and investment opportunities to international audiences.
Diplomatic engagement has also intensified in recent years. Pakistan established its embassy in Kigali in 2021, while Rwanda officially opened its embassy in Islamabad in 2025, reinforcing the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.
The two governments are also exploring new avenues to facilitate business and tourism. Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, previously disclosed that discussions are underway to expand trade and tourism cooperation, including the possibility of introducing direct flights between Rwanda and Pakistan in the future.
Bilateral trade has continued to grow steadily, with Pakistan importing Rwandan products such as tea, coffee, avocados and other agricultural commodities, while Rwanda sources medical equipment, rice, textile materials and agricultural technology from Pakistan.
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