Includes typical use of agents and distributors and how to find a good partner, e.g., whether use of an agent or distributor is legally required.
Last Published: 7/12/2019

Using a local agent who speaks the national languages (Kinyarwanda, English, French, and Swahili) can help with licensing, locating warehouse space, hiring staff, and other administrative start-up tasks. Using  an agent or distributor is is not legally required in Rwanda.

In general, finding a reliable agent or distributor requires a visit to meet with local businesspeople.  Through a Contact List, Gold Key Service (GKS), or International Partner Search (IPS), the U.S. Embassy’s Economic and Commercial Section can assist U.S. firms interested in a relationship with local partners.  For more information on these services, please visit or contact the U.S. Embassy Economic and Commercial Section at (250) 252-596-400 or KigaliEcon@state.gov.

When interviewing potential agents, key criteria include contacts with the appropriate labor market, ability to secure warehouse space, knowledge of local competition, previous work experience, and proven ability to work with government officials and U.S. businesses.When interviewing distributors, key considerations include the distributor’s sales records, sales territory, sales force, product mix, facilities, marketing policies, and customer profile.
 

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.