Uganda and Serbia Sign Landmark Agreements to Strengthen Trade and Open Skies

Today marked a pivotal moment in Uganda-Serbia relations as key agreements were signed to bolster trade and enhance bilateral connectivity. In Niš, Serbia, leaders from both countries gathered to formalize partnerships that will enable Ugandan products to enter the Serbian and broader Balkan markets while promoting mutual growth through open air routes and trade cooperation.

At the signing ceremony, presided over by Mr. Tomislav Momirović, Serbia’s Minister of Internal and Foreign Trade, and Uganda’s Gen. Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, Cabinet Minister for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, agreements were inked that facilitate the entry of Uganda’s roasted coffee and other products into Serbia with reduced tariffs. This historic trade deal, which took place in Niš, a city renowned for its location on ancient trade routes to Bulgaria, Turkey, and Thessaloniki, signifies Serbia’s growing interest in Ugandan products.

Another significant achievement is the signing of a bilateral Air Service Agreement (ASA), aimed at “opening the skies” for each other’s airlines. This move is expected to boost tourism and business travel, driving arrivals from Serbia and the Balkans to Uganda.

In addition to the trade agreements, Uganda unveiled a state-of-the-art storage facility and showroom at Niš Airport, providing a strategic hub for showcasing and distributing Ugandan products across Southern Europe.

“Today, we witness the culmination of dedicated work over the last two years, which is now bearing fruit for Uganda’s exports. This agreement opens up a new horizon of opportunities for our farmers and entrepreneurs,” said Gen. Mbadi. Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo, Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID), also underscored the broader vision: “As Uganda takes its place on the world stage, we invite all who share our vision to support these steps, which will generate jobs for our youth and enhance market prices for our farmers through organized, aggregated production.”

About the Uganda Connect Hub in Southern Europe

The signing ceremony was followed by a celebration at the first Uganda Connect Hub in Southern Europe. Launched in July last year, this hub now boasts three locations, each dedicated to connecting Ugandan products and entrepreneurs with European markets. The establishment of this network is a testament to the dedication and hard work of Uganda’s Trade Representatives, supported by PACEID.

The event today underscores Uganda’s commitment to redefining its global trade strategies. As Serbia and Uganda continue to deepen their economic relationship, this partnership not only facilitates trade but also creates new opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual prosperity.