For the fifth time, Rwanda participated in the Paris International Agricultural Show (SIA) held annually in Paris, France. The nine-day trade fair attracted more than 600,000 visitors.

Hosted at the Paris Expo–Porte de Versailles, the exhibition run from late February to early March each year, showcasing agricultural and livestock products, related value chains, farming technologies, partnerships, and innovation.

Rwanda exhibited at Stand 7, highlighting its progress in developing export-oriented agricultural and livestock products. The country is represented by the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) and the Embassy of Rwanda in France.

The event provides a platform for traders, farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors to exchange expertise and build partnerships to advance the agriculture and livestock sectors. 

Fifteen Rwandan companies participated, showcasing products such as coffee, tea, honey, and other value-added goods. The participation reflects Rwanda’s continued investment in strengthening agricultural value chains and expanding access to international markets.

Rwandan participants expressed satisfaction with the outcomes, highlighting the potential to expand markets for their products

Among the exhibitors was Ritha Umutoni, CEO of Rixu Rwanda Coffee, said that participating in such fairs helps promote Rwandan products on international markets.

“Attending is not just about meeting buyers,” she said. “We also engage in planned activities, meeting executives from large importing and exporting companies worldwide. It’s a place to learn, visit other key markets in France, and expand our business ideas and practices.”

Stephanie Kayirangwa, Managing Director of Fita Ltd, which grows and exports agricultural products including chili, commended NAEB for facilitating access to the fair and the embassy for ongoing support.

Aloys Rubayiza, Managing Director of Rwanda Mountain Coffee, noted that this was his first time at the show but was impressed by the attention Rwandan products received.

“This was Rwanda’s fifth participation, and we noticed buyers returning for Rwandan coffee and tea because they enjoyed it. It confirmed that our coffee is gaining recognition internationally,” he said.