More than 383 local and foreign companies will today start showcasing products and innovations as the 18th Rwanda International Trade Fair kicks off at the Gikondo Expo Grounds in Kicukiro.

The two-week trade fair is being organised by the Private Sector Federation (PSF) and the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

About 230 local companies, and 106 foreign exhibitors from 16 countries, including Botswana, Senegal, Nigeria, Egypt, India, Pakistan, Dubai, Singapore, East African Community member states and Malaysia, are participating in the expo.

Stephen Ruzibiza, the PSF chief executive officer, said the annual event that starts today and ends on August 12 gives exhibitors an opportunity to interact with customers and showcase their innovations, as well market the country’s tourism sector.

"It also an opportunity for local companies to learn and share knowledge with foreign firms.”

The federation is currently working with the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events secretariat at Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to ensure the country reaps big from the exhibition.

And according to Ephraim Karangwa, the head of trade fair and investments at PSF, international companies have paid $1,350 (about Rwf1 million) each for stalls, while local companies parted with $450 (about Rwf400,000).

More than 270,000 people are expected to visit the expo compared to 265,000 show-goers who visited last year.

Last year, government pledged to support the private sector to construct a new and bigger expo ground with world class facilities in Kagarama sector in Kicukiro District.

However, according to sources at PSF, the project will now be constructed concurrently with the Gahanga Olympic Sports Ground also in Kicukiro District.

business@newtimes.co.rw