President Museveni has called on Ugandan traders and exporters to ensure their products meet international standards, emphasizing that compliance is crucial to reducing trade barriers, promoting fair competition, and facilitating global business transactions.
The message was delivered on his behalf by Vice President Major General Jessica Alupo during the opening ceremony of the Uganda International Business Week at Speke Resort Munyoyo in Kampala.
The event has brought together trade delegations from countries including the United States, China, Nigeria, Serbia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ghana.
Themed "Meet, Connect and Trade: Showcasing Uganda's Best Export-Ready Brands," the event aims to boost long-term global demand for Ugandan products and reaffirm the country's commitment to strengthening exports and international trade links.
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"I urge all Ugandan exporters to make products that meet international standards and create benchmarks for products and services that reduce technical barriers to trade and increase market opportunities, particularly in developing countries," Alupo said on behalf of President Museveni.
She added that the main focus of the business week is to consolidate efforts to turn interest into actual orders and transform orders into enduring partnerships that create jobs and income for Ugandans.
The event is also intended to highlight Uganda's strategic position as a gateway to East and Central Africa.
The Uganda International Business Week was established to facilitate direct linkages and trade deals between Ugandan exporters and global buyers, while positioning Uganda's trade representatives as enablers of international business and long-term market entry.
It provides a vibrant marketplace for buyers, diaspora consumers, and the public to explore Uganda's export offerings, while building confidence in the country's traceability, packaging, logistics, and compliance systems.
Additionally, the event serves as a platform for networking, promoting collaboration, and showcasing Uganda's hospitality, business potential, and export ambitions.
Participants have the opportunity to engage with key international business players, discover new markets, and establish partnerships that can expand Uganda's presence in the global economy.
Vice President Alupo emphasized that aligning Ugandan products with international standards is not just about meeting regulatory requirements--it is essential for creating sustainable growth, enhancing the country's export profile, and driving economic development.
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Through initiatives like the International Business Week, Uganda seeks to strengthen trade relations, attract foreign investment, and empower local businesses to compete effectively on the global stage.
The government's focus is to ensure that Ugandan products are recognized for quality, reliability, and innovation, positioning the country as a credible partner in international trade.
