Harare, (New Ziana) – In a move to diversify and access new markets, the national trade development and promotion body, ZimTrade, has embarked on a comprehensive market scan of Uganda.
The initiative, supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, aims to identify high-potential export opportunities across the East African region.
Running from February 24 to March 5, 2025 the market scan, which is laser-focused on sectors that have been identified as key growth areas in the expanding Ugandan economy.
These include processed foods, manufacturing, protective clothing, and building and construction.
ZimTrade chief executive officer Allan Majuru outlined the significance of the market scan, stating; “this market scan is part of our ongoing efforts to increase trade with Uganda and leverage the existing multilateral trade agreements that our nations are part of. Our target is to gain valuable insights into the Ugandan market’s dynamics, consumer preferences, and regulatory requirements that will foster stronger economic ties, particularly under the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) trade agreement.”
Majuru further emphasized the benefits that the knowledge will bring to Zimbabwean businesses, saying, “This knowledge will enable Zimbabwean businesses to tailor their products and services to meet the specific needs of Ugandan consumers and improve their chances of success in the market. The linkages that will be created out of this scan will allow Zimbabwe companies to engage directly with Ugandan distributors, manufacturers, and other key businesses in Uganda.”
The market scan, primarily based in the Ugandan capital Kampala, is a crucial component of the broader government strategy to diversify Zimbabwean markets and unlock access to non-traditional markets.
It also aligns with the economic integration goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to create a single, unified market for goods and services across Africa.
The growing Ugandan import demand, which has seen its total imports rise from $9.09 billion in 2021 to $11.78 billion in 2023, signifies the country’s expanding economy and the increasing need for a wide range of products.
Zimbabwean exports to Uganda have also shown promising growth, and the market scan is expected to uncover further opportunities for products in this dynamic market.
The strengthening of trade relations between Zimbabwe and Uganda has been further bolstered by the introduction of direct flights between Harare and Entebbe by Uganda Airlines.
The direct air link enhances trade efficiency by reducing logistical costs, improving cargo movement, and facilitating easier business travel. The airline’s presence is expected to boost trade volumes and encourage stronger business connections between the two nations.
The market scan is also expected to strengthen the bilateral trade relations between Zimbabwe and Uganda, which is an essential component of Zimbabwe’s broader continental trade strategy.
Uganda’s strategic location within East Africa makes it a gateway to neighbouring countries such as Kenya, Rwanda, and South Sudan, enabling Zimbabwean businesses to increase their exports and tap into these other markets, thereby expanding their regional footprint.
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