Rwanda is participating in one of the world’s most influential fruit and vegetable trade fairs, Fruit Logistica 2026, currently taking place in Berlin, Germany, from February 4 to February 6, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to expand agricultural exports and strengthen its position in global produce markets.
The event, now in its 33rd edition, has attracted more than 2,600 exhibitors from 90 countries, alongside professional visitors from over 150 nations. Fruit Logistica is widely recognized as a central meeting point for the global fresh produce industry, bringing together producers, exporters, importers, logistics providers, retailers, and innovation leaders across the agricultural value chain.
Rwanda is represented by the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), the Rwandan Embassy in Germany, and representatives from 15 Rwandan companies specializing in the export of fruits and vegetables. These companies are using the platform to showcase Rwanda’s horticultural products, exchange technical knowledge, build partnerships, and explore new international markets.
Participation in Fruit Logistica is seen as a strategic opportunity for Rwanda’s exporters, who are seeking not only immediate commercial deals but also long-term market intelligence. By engaging directly with buyers and industry experts, Rwandan companies aim to better understand evolving global standards, packaging requirements, sustainability expectations, and logistics solutions that are shaping international trade.
Beyond being a trade exhibition, Fruit Logistica functions as a global networking hub for farmers, exporters, traders, transport operators, and agri-tech innovators. This environment allows Rwanda to position itself as a reliable supplier of high-quality horticultural products while strengthening its international brand in agricultural trade.
During the exhibition, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Germany, Igor César, held discussions with partner institutions working with the Rwanda Development Board, focusing on trade cooperation, investment opportunities, and ways to further support Rwandan exporters in accessing European markets. Such diplomatic engagement complements private-sector efforts by reinforcing confidence among international buyers and investors.
Rwandan company representatives have also resumed talks with international partners with whom they signed agreements during previous editions of Fruit Logistica. These follow-up discussions are aimed at translating earlier commitments into sustained export contracts, highlighting Rwanda’s intention to build long-term commercial relationships rather than one-off transactions.
Rwanda’s participation in Fruit Logistica 2026 is expected to open new export pathways, particularly into Europe and the Middle East, while strengthening existing markets. The country continues to position itself as an emerging hub for high-value horticultural exports, supported by improving production systems, quality assurance mechanisms, and efficient air cargo logistics.
The momentum comes as Rwanda records strong export performance in agricultural products. In just four days, from January 26 to January 30, 2026, the country generated more than $10.85 million (over 15.7 billion Rwandan francs) from the export of approximately 8,500 tonnes of agricultural and livestock products.
Vegetable exports accounted for 427 tonnes, generating $474,594. These vegetables were shipped to markets including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, France, and several African countries. This distribution reflects Rwanda’s growing ability to meet diverse market requirements across different regions.
Fruit exports during the same period totaled 627 tonnes, earning Rwanda $745,216. The fruits were exported to destinations such as the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Spain, and various African markets. NAEB has highlighted this performance as evidence of rising demand for Rwandan produce, driven by quality improvements and better post-harvest handling.
The floriculture sector also contributed to export revenues, with Rwanda exporting 30 tonnes of flowers valued at $250,468. These shipments were mainly destined for the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, markets known for strict quality and sustainability standards.
In addition, Rwanda exported 5,787 tonnes of other agricultural and livestock products, generating $2.9 million. These products were shipped to the United States, Oman, and several African countries, underscoring the diversity of Rwanda’s export portfolio beyond fruits and vegetables.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources announced in December 2025 that agricultural and livestock exports had generated over $893.1 million in foreign exchange earnings during 2025. This marked a significant milestone and reinforced agriculture’s role as a key pillar of Rwanda’s export-led growth strategy.
Under the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), Rwanda has set an ambitious target to increase annual foreign exchange earnings from agricultural and livestock exports to $1.5 billion by 2029. Participation in global trade fairs such as Fruit Logistica is considered essential to achieving this goal, as it enables exporters to access premium markets and improve competitiveness.
Rwanda’s steady progress in horticulture is supported by investments in irrigation, cold-chain infrastructure, quality certification, and farmer capacity building. These efforts are designed to ensure consistent supply, reduce post-harvest losses, and meet the stringent standards of international buyers.
As global demand for fresh, traceable, and sustainably produced food continues to rise, Rwanda is positioning itself to benefit from shifting consumer preferences. The country’s engagement at Fruit Logistica 2026 reflects a broader strategy to move up the agricultural value chain, attract investment, and secure long-term export growth.
With strong institutional support, improving production capacity, and growing international visibility, Rwanda’s presence in Berlin signals confidence in the country’s ability to compete on the global horticulture stage and convert international exposure into tangible economic gains.
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