Rwanda introduces import licenses for dairy products

RWANDA – Rwanda has rolled out new regulations requiring import licenses for certain food products, including dairy and milk, as part of efforts to protect public health. 

The Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) announced the measures, targeting what it calls “high-risk” items that could pose dangers if not properly managed. 

The move comes as the country seeks to tighten control over imported goods amid growing concerns about food safety.

Meanwhile, the Rwanda FDA has identified dairy products, including milk, as among the ten high-risk food items needing special oversight. 

The agency explained that these products can easily spoil or become contaminated if not handled, stored, or prepared correctly. 

The cost of obtaining an import license is set at 0.2% of the goods’ value, a fee the regulator says is reasonable to ensure compliance. 

Officials stressed that the goal is to safeguard consumers from potential health risks linked to substandard imports.

“We are putting these measures in place to protect Rwandans from unsafe food,” said Dr. Emmanuel Karara, a senior official at the Rwanda FDA. “Dairy and milk are sensitive products that require strict monitoring to avoid harm.” 

The agency noted that improper storage or transportation of milk could lead to bacterial growth, making it a priority under the new rules.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions among importers and local businesses.

Some traders worry that the additional costs and paperwork could disrupt supply chains and raise prices for consumers. 

Rwanda relies heavily on imported dairy products to meet domestic demand, with neighboring countries like Uganda and Kenya serving as key suppliers. 

A report by the East African Business Council indicates that Rwanda imported over 15 million liters of milk in 2024, highlighting the scale of the trade now facing stricter oversight.

Despite concerns, health experts have welcomed the move. Dr. Alice Uwimana, a nutrition specialist in Kigali, praised the government’s focus on food safety. 

“Milk is a staple for many families, but it can carry diseases if not regulated properly,” she said. The Rwanda FDA has also assured the public that the licensing process will be streamlined to avoid unnecessary delays.

This is not the first time Rwanda has tightened food import rules. In 2023, the country banned certain poultry products over disease fears, showing its proactive stance on public health. 

The new regulations, effective immediately, require importers to apply for licenses through the FDA’s online portal. 

Officials have vowed to enforce compliance, with penalties for those caught bypassing the system.