Uganda is strengthening its trade and investment partnership with Japan following a high-level networking event in Kampala that brought together government officials and private sector leaders from both countries to explore opportunities for exports, industrial development and investment.
The engagement, organized by the Embassy of Japan to Uganda in collaboration with the Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority (UFZEPA), focused on expanding market access for Ugandan products and building sustainable economic partnerships.
Speaking as Guest of Honour, David Bahati, the Minister of State for Industry, emphasized the importance of strengthening commercial ties and maintaining continuous engagement between businesses from the two countries.
Bahati also highlighted Uganda’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka, noting that the global exhibition provides a platform for the country to showcase its industrial capacity and cultural heritage to international investors and markets.
A key highlight of the discussions was the reaffirmation of a Memorandum of Understanding between UFZEPA and the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry aimed at promoting trade, attracting investment and improving market access for Ugandan products in Japan.
“This networking platform highlights the strong relationship between Uganda and Japan and provides an important opportunity for our private sectors to connect, collaborate, and grow together,” said Yoshida Norimasa, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Japan to Uganda.
Meanwhile, UFZEPA Executive Director Hez Kimoomi Alinda said bilateral trade between the two countries reached $14 million in 2025, driven largely by Ugandan exports such as coffee, flowers, vanilla, fish and cocoa beans.
“Our partnership with Japanese stakeholders opens new avenues for Ugandan exports and strengthens our industrial growth trajectory. We are committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive,” Alinda added.
