RICA and the Private Sector Federation (PSF) on 14^th October 2026 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in quality assurance, consumer protection, fair competition and regulatory compliance while improving the competitiveness of Rwandan products and services.

The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between the two institutions to improve compliance with applicable laws, regulations and standards, facilitate trade and support private sector development. It also aims to improve inspection and regulatory systems, contributing to better product quality and consumer confidence in domestic, regional and international markets.

Speaking on the partnership, Callixte Kanamugire, Acting Chief Executive Officer of PSF, said the agreement would help businesses better understand and meet regulatory requirements while creating opportunities for private sector growth and market expansion.

“An enabling business environment requires effective collaboration between regulators and the private sector. This partnership will help enterprises improve compliance, enhance product quality and access new markets, ultimately contributing to the competitiveness of Rwandan businesses,” he said.

Jean Pierre Bajeneza, Acting Director General of RICA, said the collaboration would support RICA’s efforts to promote consumer protection, fair competition and compliance with quality and safety requirements.

“Working closely with the private sector is essential to ensuring that businesses understand and comply with applicable standards and regulations. This partnership will also promote responsible business practices, protect consumers and improve the quality and competitiveness of products and services available on the market,” he said.

Under the MoU, RICA and PSF will cooperate in the agriculture, industry, export and trade sectors. Key areas include compliance with sanitary and phytosanitary requirements, combating counterfeit and substandard products, awareness of competition law and consumer protection, export readiness, product certification and conformity assessment.

The two institutions will also undertake joint awareness campaigns, capacity-building programmes, stakeholder consultations, research, policy dialogue and information-sharing initiatives. They may further collaborate on developing compliance guidance materials, benchmarking and annual public-private dialogue forums.

The partnership is expected to improve coordination between regulators and businesses, helping enterprises meet regulatory and technical requirements, access regional and international markets, and contribute to sustainable industrial and economic development.

By combining RICA’s regulatory mandate with PSF’s representation of the private sector, the institutions aim to promote a business environment that safeguards consumers, encourages fair competition and supports the growth and competitiveness of Rwandan enterprises.