Rwanda is stepping up efforts to expand its service exports across Africa, positioning itself to tap into the African Continental Free Trade Area’s (AfCFTA) $4 trillion services market. The Ministry of Trade and Industry is finalising a new policy aimed at boosting digital trade, cross-border services, and market access within both AfCFTA and the East African Community (EAC), as reported by Business Insider Africa.
Trade Minister Prudence Sebahizi said Rwanda’s National AfCFTA Implementation Strategy and its Green Supplement identify service exports as a key driver of inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Rwanda’s service sectors, including tourism, education, finance, and healthcare, have shown strong growth, with tourism alone generating about $579.5 million in 2024, according to CediRates.
The government is also conducting targeted market assessments in countries such as Djibouti to identify new opportunities for Rwandan service providers in ICT, logistics, and professional services. It is expanding capacity-building programmes to help exporters understand AfCFTA export procedures and regulatory requirements, AllAfrica reported.
Analysts note that with stronger regional integration, improved digital infrastructure, and harmonised regulations, Rwanda could significantly scale its service exports. However, challenges such as limited access to finance, non-recognition of professional qualifications, and regulatory inconsistencies remain key obstacles to unlocking the country’s full potential in the continental services market.
