An Australian delegation is in the country to explore investment partnerships with local investors in different sectors to boost trade between the two countries.

Led by Maj. General Michael Jeffery, also the former head of state of Australia the delegation yesterday, met with the Private Sector Federation leaders, where they shared investment ideas and potential partnership opportunities.

The meeting held at PSF headquarters in Kigali also attracted local exporters.

The visiting delegation is composed of investors in education, manufacturing, technology, construction, agriculture, and tourism sectors among others.

"We are looking at possible investment partnerships in Rwanda,” said General Michael, adding "We are impressed with the zero tolerance to corruption and this is a good pillar in accelerating partnership investment in both countries.”

The discussions centred on existing policies that attract investment in both countries and how investors can be facilitated.

A presentation was made for various trade investment opportunities.

Among the highlights was the Rwanda International Trade and Exhibition Park that is set to be constructed in Gahanga sector, Kicukiro District.

PSF has already acquired a 13hectares of land along the road towards the new Bugesera International Airport.

The project is expected to improve the existing trade fairs and exhibition facilities to meet international standards.

The $45million project will house PSF headquarters, exhibition halls, a hotel, a small zoo, and recreation centers among others.

The Private Sector Federation chairman, Benjamin Gasamagera noted that there was a conducive investment environment for foreign investors, adding that the Federation is ready to facilitate whoever is interested in investing in the country."We still have virgin markets in different sectors and we are committed to provide possible and necessary facilitation to every foreign investor. It’s important we exchange ideas and contacts and strategise the best way we can partner up,” the PSF chairman said during the meeting.

Stephen Ruzibiza, the PSF Chief Executive officer observed that despite local investment, Rwanda was also gateway to other markets such as central and east Africa.

A foreign investor who invests in Rwanda has an added opportunity of accessing other regional markets especially in the East African Community, he said.

The delegation is expected to meet other government agencies.

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