Non-Tariff Barriers

Complaint

Complaint number

NTB-001-193  

NTB Type

3. Technical barriers to trade (TBT)  

NTM Code

B14: Authorization requirements for importing certain products 

Complaint

Requirement by Botswana authority in charge of food imports that Rwanda needs to provide a " Free Sale certificate" prior to exporting coffee to Botswana. The issue is that such certificate is not required in 20 countries where Rwanda is exporting coffee globally. In addition, there is no institution in Rwanda that issues such certification.  

Status note

The requirement for a Certificate of Free Sale (or equivalent official documentation) for coffee imports is a risk-based sanitary measure consistent with the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures of the World Trade Organization, applied uniformly to ensure imported food is safe and fit for human consumption. Where Rwanda does not issue such certificates, alternative documentation from a competent authority confirming lawful manufacture and marketing is acceptable, ensuring flexibility while maintaining public health protection.  

Progress update note

 

Policy or regulatory NTB

No 

Location

Botswana: Instructions provided to the Rwanda's commercial agent based in Botswana (Other)  

Reporting Country or Region

Rwanda  

Country specific trade issue

No  

Date of incident

2023-12-10  

Status

Resolved  

Date of resolution

2026-04-27  

Product Description

Coffee export

Computer-assisted translation

• English
• Arabic
• French
• Portuguese

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Total value

0  

Date reported

2024-10-01 15:38  

Modified

2026-04-29 08:02