Import of Goods Value from Rwanda (1990-2023)

Rwanda's import of goods has demonstrated significant growth over the decades, reflecting its evolving economic landscape and increasing demand for foreign products. In the 1990s, import values fluctuated modestly, with a decline during the Rwandan Civil War and genocide in 1994, dropping to $236 million. Post-conflict recovery saw gradual increases, reaching $297 million by 1997, as reconstruction efforts spurred demand for essential goods. However, the early 2000s experienced slower growth, with imports averaging around $250 million, reflecting limited purchasing power and a reliance on subsistence agriculture.

The mid-2000s marked a turning point, driven by government-led infrastructure projects and economic liberalization. Import values surged from $471 million in 2005 to over $1 billion by 2008, fueled by investments in construction materials and machinery. The upward trajectory continued into the 2010s, with imports exceeding $2 billion by 2011, supported by growing industrialization and urbanization. By 2023, imports reached $3.86 billion, reflecting increased consumption of manufactured goods and raw materials, as Rwanda continues its economic transformation and integration into global trade networks.