Online Reporter
Judith Phiri, Zimpapers Business Hub
UGANDA has expressed strong interest in collaborating with Zimbabwean companies across various sectors, signalling potential opportunities for trade partnerships.
Uganda’s import market has witnessed substantial growth, surging from US$9.09 billion in 2021 to US$11.78 billion in 2023, indicating a robust and expanding economy. Simultaneously, Zimbabwean exports to Uganda have shown encouraging trends, with the country working to further catalyse this growth.
In a virtual presentation at the ZimTrade Export Awareness Seminar in Bulawayo on Thursday, Carrefour Uganda’s FMCG Sourcing Manager, Mr Pius Atum, said there was room for collaboration for Zimbabwean companies and Uganda’s wholesale and retail sector.
“Kampala, being the capital city of Uganda, is a hub for modern trade, with numerous shopping malls, supermarkets and retail outlets. Requirements to list your items in Ugandan supermarkets include a register your business with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) as a legal entity, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or private limited company obtain a certificate of insurance (COI),” he said.
“Zimbabwean companies should register for taxation purposes with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) that comply with tax bodies and file your returns among other things.”
He said there was need to obtain a trading licence from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) or relevant local authority, while ensuring that the Zimbabwean company has a valid trading licence before commencing operations.
Mr Atum said companies should also ensure their products meet quality standards and regulatory requirements set by relevant authorities, such as the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS).
“You need to also comply with labelling, packaging and certification requirements for your products. Zimbabwean companies should meet the supermarket’s supplier requirements, which may include product quality, by providing high-quality products that meet the supermarket’s standards,” he added.
He said there was need to ensure timely and reliable delivery of products, offering a range of products that meet the supermarket’s needs, competitive pricing and providing necessary documentation, such as invoices and delivery notes.
A significant boost to trade efficiency is the recent launch of direct flights between Harare and Entebbe by Uganda Airlines. This development is poised to significantly reduce logistical costs and streamline cargo movement, enhancing the competitiveness of Zimbabwean exports.
Bongani Ndlovu