The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has stepped up efforts to tap into the global Halal market, positioning it as a key driver of exports and economic growth.
Speaking at a Corporate Iftar dinner in Kampala, UNBS Executive Director Eng. James Kasigwa said the bureau is strengthening collaboration with the Muslim community to advance quality standards, protect consumers, and open up new markets for Ugandan products.
Held under the theme “Strengthening Partnerships, Upholding Quality,” the engagement brought together stakeholders to explore how Uganda can better align its standards with global requirements.
Kasigwa said UNBS plays a central role in ensuring that goods and services meet required safety and quality benchmarks through testing, certification, and market surveillance.
He noted that this is critical in building trust in Ugandan products and enabling local businesses to compete both at home and abroad.
Focus on Halal certification
Kasigwa highlighted the growing potential of the global Halal market, estimated at more than USD 3 trillion, particularly in food and pharmaceuticals.
He said Uganda, as an agriculture-based economy, is well placed to benefit but has struggled to access the market due to the lack of a clear Halal certification framework.
To address this, UNBS is prioritising the development of a national Halal certification system that will cover the entire value chain, from production and processing to transportation and export.
“This will enable Ugandan products to meet international requirements and access high-value markets,” he said.
Missed opportunities
Kasigwa pointed to existing export opportunities that remain untapped, including a milk market in Algeria valued at up to USD 500 million annually. He said such opportunities can only be realised if Uganda strengthens its certification systems.
He added that partnerships with the Muslim community will be key in building credible, internationally accepted standards.
UNBS is also working with regional and global standardisation bodies to develop certification frameworks that can position Uganda as a competitive player in Halal trade.
Driving economic growth
Officials say expanding into the Halal market fits within government’s broader plan to grow the economy, with a focus on increasing exports, strengthening value chains, and supporting local enterprises.
Kasigwa commended the Muslim community for its strong involvement in trade and enterprise, noting that their role will be important in driving compliance and expanding market access.
