By Wadulo Arnold Mark
The Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID) recently announced the third International Buyers Week, scheduled for 9th–15th November 2026, with the aim of facilitating up to US$300 million in potential export deals. The initiative seeks to connect Ugandan manufacturers with international buyers while reducing the costs local businesses often incur when searching for markets abroad.
As part of its next phase, PACEID says it is focusing on establishing regional aggregation centres across the country. Planned facilities, including one in Gulu for the Acholi sub-region, are expected to provide infrastructure for washing, drying, grading, and standardized storage to help producers meet export requirements and supply larger international orders more consistently.
According to Brenda Katarikawe Opus, Director of Markets and Communication, Uganda is gradually expanding its presence in international markets. She noted that Ugandan iced espresso is now available in Detroit, USA, leather products are entering the North American market, demand for Ugandan simsim (sesame) continues to grow in China, and the Democratic Republic of Congo has expressed interest in sourcing Ugandan beef.
PACEID Vice Chairperson Moses Sabiti said bringing international buyers to Uganda allows them to assess the quality and authenticity of products firsthand, particularly coffee. He added that the approach has helped create new market opportunities in countries such as Serbia and Canada.
The committee also welcomed Cabinet’s approval of a proposed Food Safety Bill, which is expected to establish a regulatory authority to oversee standards relating to pesticides, fertilizers, and product traceability. PACEID believes the legislation could strengthen Uganda’s compliance with international market requirements and reduce the rejection of exports.
Head of Secretariat Matthew Bagonza said the committee’s long-term focus is on improving consistency, addressing infrastructure and financing challenges, and helping local enterprises meet international standards. He noted that these efforts are intended to contribute to Uganda’s broader industrialization and export growth ambitions, while acknowledging that significant work remains to expand the country’s presence in global markets.
