Rwanda plans to increase coffee exports

Rwanda, a country known for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture, is also making a name for itself in the global coffee market. With a goal to increase coffee exports to 24,500 tons by the end of this year, up from 23,000 tons last year, the country is taking strategic steps to solidify its position as a key player in the coffee industry. One company at the forefront of this growth is the Rwanda Trading Company, which processes and exports 40% of Rwanda's yearly coffee production, making it the largest coffee exporter in the country. Clay Parker, the Managing Director of Rwanda Trading Company, shared insights on the company's journey and the strategies put in place to achieve such remarkable success. Established in 2009, the company identified Rwanda as a unique investment opportunity due to its conducive environment and high number of coffee farmers. Parker highlighted the focus on producing high-quality fully washed coffee, which could command a premium in the global market. Over the span of nearly a decade, the company has grown significantly, now exporting around ten and a half million pounds of fully washed coffee annually. Parker emphasized the importance of strong relationships with farmers in the coffee industry, stating that a farmer-focused approach is essential for long-term success. By investing in farmer agronomy and community development, Rwanda Trading Company ensures that farmers receive fair prices and have a reliable partner for years to come. The company's commitment to supporting traditional farming practices while introducing new techniques has led to improvements in both the quantity and quality of coffee produced. Despite global market influences on coffee prices, Parker explained that Rwanda's ability to produce exceptionally high-quality coffee can help decouple local prices from international trends. By focusing on premium coffee production, the country can position itself to command higher prices in the market. While Rwanda may be playing catch-up to established coffee origins like Brazil and Costa Rica, its reputation for quality is steadily growing, paving the way for increased global recognition and demand. In a competitive industry landscape, Rwanda Trading Company views competition as a driving force for growth. While the company has organically become the largest exporter of Rwandan coffee, its primary goal remains to be the best in the industry. Parker acknowledged the presence of other strong players in the market, emphasizing the collective effort to elevate Rwanda's coffee industry to new heights. With a strong foundation built on quality, community engagement, and a commitment to excellence, Rwanda's coffee industry is poised for continued success. As the country aims to boost its coffee exports and enhance its global reputation, companies like Rwanda Trading Company will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Rwanda's coffee sector.