Uganda and Tanzania have concluded the 5th Session of the Uganda–Tanzania Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) in Dar es Salaam, reaffirming cooperation in trade, infrastructure, energy and regional integration.
The meeting, the first in four years under the bilateral framework, brought together ministers, senior government officials and technical experts from both countries to review progress across key areas of cooperation.
Officials from the two governments signed a framework agreement for the Isaka–Lusahunga–Murongo/Kikagati–Mpondwe Standard Gauge Railway, a project expected to strengthen transport links between the two countries and connect inland markets to the Port of Dar es Salaam.
The discussions also highlighted growing infrastructure and transport connectivity between the two neighbours. Among the developments cited were the 24-hour operation of the Mutukula One Stop Border Post, the harmonisation of road user charges, and the launch of MV New Mwanza, Africa’s largest freshwater vessel operating on Lake Victoria, which is expected to boost trade and tourism along the regional waterway.
Energy cooperation also featured prominently during the talks. Officials noted that the $5 billion East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) is now about 79 percent complete, while discussions are ongoing on additional energy links including a natural gas pipeline from Tanzania to Uganda and a refined petroleum pipeline connecting Uganda to the Port of Tanga.
Trade relations between the two countries were also reviewed. According to figures discussed during the session, Tanzania exported about $2.7 billion worth of goods to Uganda in 2025, while imports from Uganda stood at around $300 million.
Both governments agreed to address non-tariff barriers affecting commodities such as sugar, milk and steel, setting a June 30 deadline to resolve the issues.
Officials emphasized that the next phase of the partnership must move beyond agreements to full implementation so that cooperation directly benefits traders, investors and citizens across the region.
Uganda will host the 6th Session of the Joint Permanent Commission in 2028.
