Rwanda sugar imports fall 36% in 2025 as local output rises, consumer preferences shift
Lower re-exports of raw sugar to neighbouring countries have further contributed to the decline.
RWANDA – Rwanda’s sugar imports declined 36.5% in volume and 39.1% in value in 2025, reflecting increased domestic production and shifting consumption patterns.
The country imported 195,610 tonnes, valued at US$145 million, down from 308,000 tonnes valued at US$238 million in 2024.
Minister of Trade and Industry Prudence Sebahizi attributed the decline to reduced demand for refined sugar, improved local output, and lower re-exports to neighbouring countries. “The decrease in imports can be attributed to a drop in refined sugar consumption locally, coupled with increased domestic production,” he told The New Times.
He added that re-exports of raw sugar for further processing also declined. “This shift reflects market adjustments and changing consumer preferences, rather than any new policy measures.“
The decline follows a rise in imports in 2024, when Rwanda imported 308,000 tonnes valued at US$238 million, a 24% increase from US$192 million in 2023. Imported volumes include raw sugar for industrial refining, sugar for beverage manufacturing, and refined sugar for household consumption.
Several factors are driving the decline in imports. One, improved domestic production has reduced reliance on imported sugar. Two, evolving consumer habits, including reduced consumption of refined sugar, have also played a role.
Lastly, lower re-exports of raw sugar to neighbouring countries have further contributed to the decline.
In addition, the government applies the East African Community Common External Tariff, together with safeguard measures, to balance consumer affordability with the protection of local producers.
Further, to stabilize prices while supporting the domestic industry, the government allows strategic imports under managed quotas. It has also temporarily eased the regional external tariff on sugar and other essential food items to reduce consumer costs, according to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning.
Sebahizi clarified discrepancies between the ministry’s data and the annual report, noting that the report follows the fiscal year from July to June, whereas the figures provided reflect the calendar year from January to December.
As local output continues to grow and the government maintains managed tariff policies, the country is moving towards greater self-sufficiency while keeping prices affordable for citizens.
Consequently, the decline in imports signals a stabilizing market in which local supply is becoming more prominent, though strategic imports will continue to play a role in managing price volatility and meeting industrial demand.
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