On March 4, 2026, the official Gazette of Rwanda published Law No. 011/2026 of February 26, 2026, governing competition and consumer protection, replacing the previous Law No. 36/2012 of September 21, 2012.
The law was approved by the Chamber of Deputies on December 3, 2026, under Article 64 of the Rwandan Constitution.
The law is designed to establish fair market competition and reinforce consumer rights while providing clear legal frameworks for enforcement. It prohibits anti-competitive practices, including agreements or collaborations between businesses that distort or restrict competition. It also introduces oversight of mergers and acquisitions for companies with significant market influence to prevent market manipulation.
Authorities are empowered to investigate and monitor market activities across sectors to identify and correct practices that undermine fair competition. The law strengthens consumer protection by ensuring safety from harmful goods or services, requiring accurate information on products and services to enable informed decisions, and promoting access to a variety of competitively priced products.
Consumers are also guaranteed rights to compensation, including repairs, replacements, or refunds for defective goods or services, as well as access to education and awareness programs to fully understand products and services before making purchases.
Law No. 011/2026 also introduces regulations for e-commerce, requiring online businesses to comply with consumer protection standards, with existing operators given six months to meet the requirements. It further addresses multi-level marketing practices, including measures to prevent illegal pyramid schemes, and establishes dispute resolution mechanisms through amicable settlement, regulatory appeals, independent review committees, and the courts.
The new legislation represents a significant step in promoting responsible business practices, protecting consumers, and fostering a competitive market environment in Rwanda.
