The Private Sector Federation (PSF) has projected the number of participants in the 2009 Rwanda International Trade Fair to increase by 20 percent as a result of an aggressive campaign.

The 12th trade fair, which will start from July 30 to August 10, 2009, has already attracted extra 119 or 34 percent exhibitors form 300 exhibitors last year to 419 this year, the PSF said.
While addressing Journalists at the PSF head quarters on Monday, Emmanuel Hategeka the Federation’s CEO said the number of exhibition stands has also been increased by 100 stands from 564 last year to 664 stands this year.

He said that this year’ exhibition has attracted 10 countries including India, Dubai, Turkey, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi. South Africa, DR Congo and Ivory Cost are also expected to participate but are yet to confirm.

The Kigali Expo comes barely a month Rwanda started implementing the East African Community (EAC) Customs Union with hopes of acquiringlow-priced goods and services from within the EAC due to zero internal tariffs.

"The prices may or may not decline because tax is not the only factor that determines prices. If other factors like fuel prices or raw materials remain constant then prices will decline,” Hategeka explained. He pointed out that East African Breweries Ltd has promised to reduce prices as a response to the new internal tax structure.

"Besides giving exhibitors the opportunity to showcase their latest innovation, strike deals and share experiences, this year’s expo is very unique in a way that PSF and will feature promotion  of customer care through out the fair.

The CEO revealed that PSF is in advanced studies that will lead to the construction of a new 4,000 square metre international trade fair ground on Bugesera road. This is five times bigger than the current Gikondo-based expo ground.

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