Local firms have been impressed by the opportunities presented by the Tanzania market. Private sector players who participated in the recently-ended Dar es Salaam 2016 International Trade Fair in Tanzania said the country could help expand Rwanda’s export markets.

Maureen Rugwiza, a local handicraft dealer, said products exhibited by Rwandan firms created a lot of interest among Tanzanians and other participants.

She said this could eventually translate into new business deals and partnerships with their counterparts.

"Attending international exhibitions provided us platforms to network and seek business opportunities that will help us get new export markets as well as possibilities of joint ventures,” she said.

"That is why it is critical that Rwandan firms always participate in such exhibitions because they also provide learning experiences besides helping us forge partnerships with the rest of the business world,” Rugwiza added.

The trade fair, which ended on July 8, attracted 15 Rwandan companies, including agro-processors, leather products makers, as well as cosmetics and textiles manufacturers.

Eric Kabeera, the head of communications and marketing at Private Sector Federation (PSF), said international trade fairs help Rwandan firms to compare notes with other exhibitors, particularly on best practices and new marketing strategies.

"PSF promotes such interactions as they help our firms examine their processes or strategies and see how they can improve to become more competitive,” Kabeera said.