Compliance and Regulatory

Compliance and Regulatory

Nowadays the retail sector is under constant competitive and compliance pressure. Retail chains, multinational brands, consumer goods producers, distributors and importers are also challenged by foreign currency conversion problem existing in Rwanda. In this situation, players on the retail market are seeking for business-oriented advice to overcome these challenges, particularly those concerning foreign currency conversion and customs clearance, in efficient and cost-effective manner.

Possessing the fundamental knowledge and understanding of peculiarities of the retail business as well as having extensive experience in dealing with the most complex legal, customs and tax issues in the market, Colin&Colin Retail and Consumer Goods Practice is well placed to help clients overcome these challenges and achieve their business objectives.

Our lawyers proactively advice clients in food and beverages business, clothing and footwear, alcoholic and tobacco products, pharmaceuticals and household chemicals, consumer electronics and automobiles throughout the complexities of their entire life cycle, from the company’s formation and launching of its operations, to introduction of its products and distribution network arrangement, to litigation and IP protection and beyond. The Retail and Consumer Goods team of Colin&Colin regularly advises clients on all commercial transactions including supply and distribution agreements, joint venture and partnership arrangements, franchising and licensing issues.

The proposed transactions are examined for their compliance with the Rwanda laws on fight against financing of terrorism and corruption and, where applicable, with the relevant provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of the USA and the UK Anti-Bribery Act.

Our services

  • Retail and Consumer Goods
  • Franchising;
  • Antitrust and competition law matters;
  • Marketing, advertising and other types of promotion;
  • Import-export operations;
  • Commercial relationships including logistics, distribution, packaging, manufacturing and marketing and sales;
  • Customs and foreign exchange regulations;
  • Certification, licensing and regulatory compliance;
  • Product liability and foods safety issues;
  • IP protection;
  • Debt finance arrangements and securitization structures;
  • Dispute resolution;
  • Eeal estate matters: construction, acquisition, lease, sale and leasebacks of supermarkets, shopping centers, warehouses etc.;
  • Anti-money laundering and bribery/corruption.