The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has reinforced baggage clearance procedures at Entebbe International Airport to curb tax evasion and streamline customs processes.
The updated enforcement measures, which include stricter weight limits for dutiable goods and a two-hour tax payment window upon arrival, come amid a surge in trade activity and cases of passengers misdeclaring commercial goods as personal baggage.
According to URA, the adjustments follow amendments to the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA) and are meant to balance trade facilitation with tax compliance.
One of the key changes is an increase in the duty-free threshold from $500 to $2,000 for passengers who have been outside Uganda for more than 24 hours.
However, this exemption does not apply to gifts, items intended for resale, or company-owned goods.
Speaking at the Uganda Media Centre, Sylvester Kiwanuka, the manager of customs at Entebbe International Airport, emphasized that these rules are not new but are being reinforced to prevent abuse.
“Some travelers disguise trade goods as personal baggage to evade taxes. These procedures will ensure compliance while reducing congestion at customs checkpoints,” Kiwanuka said.
Passengers carrying dutiable goods exceeding 50 kilograms in commercial value—such as electronics, clothing, vehicle spare parts, and phone accessories—must now process them through the cargo terminal instead of the passenger baggage section.
Additionally, traders importing such goods are required to use their Tax Identification Numbers (TINs).
To further tighten enforcement, URA has introduced a two-hour deadline for passengers carrying taxable goods to settle their duties.
If payment is not made within this timeframe, the baggage will be moved to the cargo terminal for further processing.
While some travelers appreciate the clarity in the guidelines, others have raised concerns about the short window for tax payment, saying it may be difficult for those with multiple baggage items.
For returning Ugandan residents who have lived abroad for at least a year, tax exemptions remain in place for personal and household effects—provided they were previously used and will be for personal use in Uganda.
However, restricted items such as used refrigerators, computers, and televisions will be confiscated upon arrival.
With increased trade activity and more flights to destinations like China, India, Dubai, and Turkey, URA is urging travelers to familiarize themselves with the updated regulations to avoid delays.
The agency maintains that these enforcement measures will enhance efficiency while ensuring compliance with customs laws.