By Rene Anthere Rwanyange
Rwanda generated US$10.65 million from the export of 8,482 metric tonnes of agricultural products between September 7 and 11, 2026, highlighting the growing contribution of agriculture to the country’s export earnings.
The figures, provided by the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), show that diversified agricultural products accounted for the largest share of both export volume and earnings during the five-day period.
Diversified agricultural products generated US$5.01 million from 6,673 metric tonnes, making them the biggest contributor to agricultural export earnings during the period.
Coffee ranked second in value, generating US$2.90 million from 405 metric tonnes exported. Fruits brought in US$978,905 from 484 metric tonnes, while tea generated US$643,914 from 230 metric tonnes. Animal products contributed US$580,089 from 249 metric tonnes, while vegetables generated US$458,518 from 429 metric tonnes. Flower exports recorded 12 metric tonnes, generating US$71,578.
The export figures come as national statistics show the wider importance of agriculture to Rwanda’s economy. According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), agriculture contributed 21% of Rwanda’s GDP in the second quarter of 2026, while the sector grew by 4% compared with the same quarter of 2025.
NISR also reported that Rwanda’s domestic exports were valued at US$366.85 million in the first quarter of 2026, although this represented a 23.7% decline compared with the same period in 2025.
The NAEB data shows that Rwanda’s agricultural exports are reaching markets across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North America. Vegetables were exported mainly to Great Britain, the Netherlands, France, India and African countries. Fruit exports went largely to the United Arab Emirates, China, France and African countries, while flowers were destined mainly for the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
Diversified agricultural products reached markets including Bangladesh, the United States, Kyrgyzstan and African countries. Animal products were mainly exported to France, China and African markets. The figures point to the increasing diversification of Rwanda’s agricultural export basket and international markets, while highlighting the sector’s role in generating foreign exchange.
National Institution of Statistics of Rwanda reports that Rwanda’s domestic exports reached US$366.85 million in Q1 2026, while agriculture accounted for 21% of GDP in Q2 2026.
