Advocacy & Policy

Rwanda Association of Manufacturing > Advocacy & Policy

ADVOCACY & POLICY

RAM is the voice of Rwanda’s manufacturing sector. Advocacy is the association’s primary pillar—focused on identifying, researching, and resolving constraints that affect manufacturers’ competitiveness and sustainability.

How RAM Advocates

RAM advances manufacturers’ interests through structured, evidence-based engagement, including: Formal communication channels with government institutions Public–Private Dialogue and issue-resolution mechanisms Policy briefs, position papers, and sector recommendations Advocacy events (workshops, seminars, conferences) Collaboration with PSF Secretariat, RCI, and member associations on complex and cross-cutting issues

The Manufacturing Advocacy Platform

The main channel for advocacy is the Manufacturing Advocacy Platform, designed as a structured public–private dialogue. The platform approach emphasizes: Regular engagement (predictable cadence) Agreed processes for issue identification, formulation, and resolution Participation by government, member associations, and relevant stakeholders Where appropriate, RAM also engages through existing or future PSF advocacy platforms (e.g., taxes, standards, environment).

Priority Issues Affecting Manufacturers

High cost of electricity (among the highest in EAC) High interest rates and short loan maturities High cost of transport by road and sea Policy impacts of the ban on plastic packaging High forex spreads VAT administration challenges Reliability and consistency in electricity supply Lack of skilled personnel Consistency in application of taxes Access to finance for industrial SMEs Security of transport in corridors Long approval times for loans Illicit trade Non-tariff barriers (NTBs) along corridors Need for simplification and clarity of tax administration

Alignment with Government Policies

RAM’s work aligns with national development priorities that emphasize private sector-led growth and industrial transformation, including: Vision 2020 and its focus on private sector leadership in economic growth EDPRS II (2013–2018) and its goal of accelerating progress to middle-income status through sustained growth and poverty reduction Supporting policies and strategies such as the National Export Policy (NEP), National Industrial Policy (NIP), and Domestic Market Recapturing Strategy (DMRS) RAM contributes by ensuring manufacturers’ realities and evidence-based recommendations inform policy design and implementation.

Advocacy Track Record

RAM has advocated on key matters including: Polythene bag ban regulation Water and electricity tariff increase impacts Manufacturing skills assessment EAC Common External Tariff review PET bottle restrictions in liquor packaging