The federal cabinet has approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on trade with Rwanda to strengthen bilateral commercial ties under Pakistan’s Look Africa Policy.
The non-binding agreement will establish an institutional framework to enhance trade cooperation between the two countries through the creation of a Pakistan-Rwanda Joint Working Group on Trade, regular official consultations, and stronger engagement between businesses and trade organizations.
Pakistan first proposed a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) to Rwanda in July 2018. After several rounds of diplomatic consultations, inter-ministerial discussions, and virtual meetings, both countries agreed to replace the proposed BTA with a broader and more flexible trade MoU.
The cabinet’s approval paves the way for the signing of the finalized agreement, which includes provisions for exchanging trade delegations, organizing trade fairs and exhibitions, strengthening cooperation between chambers of commerce, establishing a Joint Business Council, promoting joint ventures, sharing trade-related information, and addressing non-tariff trade barriers.
Officials said the MoU does not create any legally binding obligations or financial commitments for either government. Instead, it provides a structured platform to expand bilateral trade and deepen commercial cooperation.
Pakistan launched its Look Africa Policy in 2017 to diversify exports, attract foreign investment, and strengthen economic relations with African countries. The initiative focuses on expanding Pakistan’s trade footprint across the continent through diplomatic engagement, business partnerships, trade agreements, and participation in regional trade events.
Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies and is considered a key trade, logistics, and investment hub in East Africa, making it an important strategic partner for Pakistan’s expanding engagement with the region.
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