Uganda and Tanzania have launched a high-level trade mission in Kampala, aimed at unlocking investment and strengthening private sector collaboration across key industries.
Dubbed the Uganda-Tanzania Trade Mission 2025, the week-long event kicked off under the theme “Building Stronger Trade Partnerships for Long-Term Prosperity.”
The initiative brings together top government officials, private sector leaders, and investors from both nations to explore new opportunities in trade and economic cooperation.
Organized by the Ugandan High Commission in Tanzania, the mission is spotlighting sectors with high potential—agro-processing, construction materials, steel, dairy, pharmaceuticals, and fast-moving consumer goods.
A Growing Partnership, But Trade Gap Remains
Uganda’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, Fred Mwesigye, celebrated the recent growth in trade between the two countries, noting that bilateral trade surged to $2.23 billion in 2024, up from $1.36 billion in 2023.
However, he highlighted a critical concern: Uganda’s imports from Tanzania ($2.0 billion) continue to vastly exceed its exports ($185 million), creating a trade imbalance that could undermine long-term economic goals.
“While this growth is commendable, we must strive for more balanced trade. Let’s unlock Uganda’s export potential,” Mwesigye urged.
Private Sector Seen as Key Driver
Sarah Kagingo, Vice Chairperson of the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), welcomed the Tanzanian delegation, praising the mission as a major step toward attracting Tanzanian investments into Uganda.
“The private sector is the engine of economic transformation. This mission is a gateway for businesses from both sides to thrive,” Kagingo stated.
Infrastructure as a Growth Catalyst
Hon. Mbadi, Uganda’s State Minister for Trade, pointed to regional infrastructure projects such as the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) as crucial to opening up trade routes and creating jobs.
He reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to creating a favourable and competitive business environment, especially for cross-border investors.
Strengthening Transport and Logistics
Representing Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Mr Masunga Biteko emphasized the importance of improving transport links through Air Tanzania and the MV Umoja ferry, which connects the two nations via Lake Victoria.
“We’re here to deepen an already strong friendship. Efficient logistics will fast-track our economic ambitions,” he said.
What’s Next on the Agenda?
Throughout the week, delegates will participate in business-to-business (B2B) sessions, site visits to Ugandan industrial parks, and high-level discussions focused on regional economic integration.
The trade mission reflects a growing recognition among East African economies that regional cooperation is key to surviving and thriving in the increasingly competitive global marketplace.
As Uganda and Tanzania seek to balance their trade books, initiatives like this one serve as vital bridges to long-term prosperity and inclusive growth.
