Rwanda has introduced a significant update to its competition and consumer protection framework in 2026, and businesses across the country need to pay close attention.

Among the most notable changes is a new post-merger notification requirement — even after a merger has been finalized, regulatory authorities now retain the power to review the transaction if competition concerns emerge later. This marks a shift from the traditional pre-merger notification model many businesses were used to, and it means ongoing compliance monitoring is now essential, not optional.

The law also introduces clearer rules around the growing e-commerce sector, addressing licensing requirements, obligations for online businesses, and stronger protections for digital consumers — a timely update given how rapidly online commerce has expanded in Rwanda in recent years. For business owners, this legislation signals that regulators are taking a more active, ongoing role in ensuring fair market conduct rather than a one-time compliance check at the point of a transaction.

At Fortis Law Chamber, we’re helping clients review their existing agreements, merger structures, and e-commerce operations to ensure full compliance with these new requirements. If your business has recently undergone a merger or acquisition, or operates in the e-commerce space, now is the time to have your practices reviewed. Reach out to our team to schedule a compliance consultation.