Rwanda signs an agreement with Singapore to expand coffee exports across Southeast Asia, improve market access and build commercial partnerships while targeting higher export earnings through quality and value addition.
Rwanda strengthens its coffee trade presence in Southeast Asia through a strategic partnership with Singapore aimed at improving market access, developing commercial relationships and connecting local exporters with buyers across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) and the Singapore Coffee Association sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the ASEAN International Coffee Summit 2026 in Singapore on November 6. The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between the coffee industries of both countries, with an emphasis on creating new business opportunities for Rwandan coffee producers and exporters.
Also read: Vietnam's To Lam Visits Japan to Advance Three Key Priorities
Under the agreement, both organisations seek to strengthen connections between Rwandan exporters and Singapore-based coffee buyers, traders, roasters and distributors. They also plan to facilitate the exchange of market information, industry developments and trade opportunities to help businesses identify potential partnerships and understand regional market requirements.
NAEB Chief Executive Officer Claude Bizimana says the partnership provides opportunities for Rwandan coffee producers and exporters to engage directly with international industry stakeholders and establish long-term commercial relationships. Singapore's position as an international business and trade hub makes it an important gateway for Rwanda's expansion into the wider Southeast Asian coffee market.
The partnership also supports Rwanda's broader strategy to diversify agricultural export destinations and increase the value generated by its coffee sector. Rather than focusing solely on export volumes, the country aims to strengthen product quality, traceability, workforce skills and origin branding. These efforts are intended to improve the international competitiveness of Rwandan coffee and create greater value for producers.
The agreement comes as Rwanda works towards its Coffee Sector Development Strategy for 2024–2029, which targets annual coffee export earnings of US$192 million by 2029. According to NAEB data, the country generates US$139.3 million from coffee exports during the 2025–26 fiscal year, shipping approximately 23,000 tonnes. Expanding into Southeast Asian markets forms part of its efforts to achieve the target.
Also read: Why Ongoing Innovation is more Critical in the Retail industry
The ASEAN International Coffee Summit and related industry engagements also provide Rwanda with opportunities to showcase its coffee varieties, connect with international buyers and promote direct sourcing partnerships. NAEB's participation in Singapore Coffee Week further supports these efforts through product exhibitions, tasting sessions and business networking.
The agreement with Singapore marks a step in Rwanda's efforts to strengthen international agricultural trade relations. Through closer industry cooperation, improved market intelligence and stronger origin branding, the country aims to expand its coffee exports while building a more competitive and value-driven coffee sector.