Importing goods into Rwanda involves several official steps regulated by the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) and other regulatory agencies. Businesses and individuals must follow specific procedures before their cargo can be released and delivered.
1. Cargo Shipment from the Origin Country
The process begins when goods are shipped from the exporting country using an international cargo carrier such as Turkish Cargo.
The cargo can be transported via:
- Air cargo (fast delivery)
- Sea freight (through ports like Mombasa or Dar es Salaam)
- Road transport (for regional cargo)
Air cargo is commonly used for fast shipments, electronics, commercial goods, and urgent supplies.
2. Required Documents for Importing into Rwanda
Before goods arrive, importers must prepare the required documents for customs clearance.
Important documents include:
- Air Waybill (AWB) or Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice from the supplier
- Packing List describing the goods
- Import Declaration Form (IDF)
- Certificate of Origin (for some goods)
- Importer Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Special permits for regulated goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, or agricultural products
These documents allow customs authorities to verify the shipment and calculate the required taxes.
3. Arrival Notice and Cargo Verification
When the cargo arrives in Rwanda (for example at Kigali International Airport), the importer or cargo agent receives an arrival notice.
Authorities then verify the shipment details, including:
- Cargo description
- Quantity and weight
- Country of origin
- HS Code classification for taxation
Incorrect information can delay cargo release or result in penalties.
4. Customs Declaration and Tax Assessment
A licensed clearing agent submits the cargo declaration to customs through Rwanda’s Electronic Single Window system, which connects all government agencies involved in the import process.
During this stage:
- Customs calculates import duties and taxes
- Goods may be inspected
- Regulatory approvals may be required
5. Payment of Duties and Taxes
Imported goods in Rwanda may be subject to several charges such as:
- Import duty (depending on product category)
- VAT
- Industrial Development Levy (1.5%)
- Quality Inspection Fee (0.2%)
Duty rates vary depending on the product type. For example:
- Raw materials: 0%
- Intermediate goods: 10–25%
- Finished goods: up to 35% or more
6. Cargo Release and Delivery
Once all requirements are completed:
- Customs releases the cargo
- Warehouse handling fees are paid
- A goods exit note is issued
- Cargo can then be transported to the importer’s location
Why Many Importers Use Cargo Agents
Import procedures can be complicated for individuals or small businesses.
Professional cargo agents help with:
- Preparing import documents
- Cargo tracking
- Customs clearance
- Tax calculations
- Delivery coordination
This ensures faster cargo release and fewer costly mistakes.
How FRAMEG Cargo Helps Importers
At FRAMEG Cargo Tour & Travel Services, we assist individuals and businesses importing goods to Rwanda.
Through partnerships with international carriers such as Turkish Cargo, we help clients ship cargo safely from many countries including:
- Turkey
- China
- Dubai (UAE)
- Europe
- United States
Our services include:
✔ International cargo shipping
✔ Cargo consolidation from suppliers
✔ Customs clearance guidance
✔ Safe cargo handling
✔ Cargo delivery support in Rwanda
