Uganda is aiming to regain and expand access to the United States market following the reauthorization of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), the chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID), Odrek Rwabwogo, has stated.
As the United States and African partners work to modernize AGOA, Uganda is well positioned to demonstrate progress in trade reforms and economic governance.
The extension of AGOA is not only a positive development for Africa but also an opportunity for Uganda to reset engagement, unlock opportunities for businesses, and benefit its citizens.
“The extension restores an important trade opportunity for African countries and gives Uganda a chance to rebuild confidence among exporters and investors,” said Rwabwogo.
“At PACEID, we have worked tirelessly to expand Uganda's access to the US market. New commercial opportunities have emerged in cities such as Detroit, Chicago, and Atlanta, helping Ugandan businesses stay connected to US buyers during periods of uncertainty,” he added.
Since Uganda’s suspension from AGOA in January 2024, PACEID has engaged critically with US officials, including members of the House Committee on Ways and Means, to facilitate the country’s reinstatement.
These efforts intensified in December 2025 when the bill to renew AGOA was approved.
Rwabwogo emphasized that while Uganda’s progress is significant, the country must continue pushing for a full return—not just for itself, but for other African nations that were suspended.
Reinstatement into AGOA would expand market access for Ugandan products, attract foreign investment into export-oriented sectors, create jobs, support inclusive growth, and reinforce ongoing reforms promoting economic integration.
AGOA eligibility requires participating countries to demonstrate progress toward market-based economies, respect for the rule of law, political pluralism, due process, protection of human rights, and removal of barriers to US trade and investment.
