Uganda has set its sights on tapping into Oman’s substantial annual import market, valued at $38.5 billion, as the nation prepares to participate in the East Africa Trade and Investment Expo on April 16–17, 2025, in Muscat, Oman.
The Expo is designed to strengthen trade and investment ties, foster innovation and knowledge sharing, and build lasting economic relationships between Uganda, the East African region, and Oman. Uganda currently contributes only $8 million to Oman’s import market, underscoring the significant untapped potential for economic collaboration.
Uganda plans to leverage its robust agricultural sector, which aligns with Oman’s focus on enhancing food security. Key areas of interest include agro-processing, tourism, manufacturing, mining, and science and technology, as highlighted by Ingah Atamba Kutesa, the Honorary Consul of the Sultanate of Oman to Uganda.
“We are focusing on sectors that are vital for Uganda’s economic growth, including agro-processing, tourism, manufacturing, mining, and science and technology. The government, through the Uganda Investment Authority and the Uganda Tourism Board, has mapped out projects ready for investment,” Kutesa explained.
The Expo presents Uganda with an opportunity to diversify its export base, attract foreign direct investment, and integrate more effectively into the global economy. Oman’s strategic trade relations with regions such as Indo-Asia, the GCC countries, Europe, and beyond make it a key partner for Uganda’s export ambitions.
A delegation from Oman, led by Sayyid Barghash Turki Al Said and committee member Faiz Mohammed Al Shikely, recently visited Uganda to provide insights on the Expo. They emphasized that many Ugandan products have yet to reach the Omani market, and the Expo aims to bridge this gap.
Private sector representatives in Uganda view the Expo as a gateway to Oman’s market but point to logistical challenges, such as the absence of direct flights between Uganda and Oman, as obstacles to seamless trade. Fahad Kasagga, Managing Director of Aplus Associates, called for government involvement in addressing these issues.
“Policymakers should prioritize market access and logistical improvements during MoUs. Establishing direct flights between Uganda and Oman would significantly ease business operations,” said Kasagga.
Beyond trade, the Expo provides a platform for Uganda to gain expertise from Oman, particularly in the oil and gas sector. Oman’s long-standing success in oil and gas development offers Uganda an opportunity for knowledge transfer and capacity building, especially in areas like the Kabaale industrial park, which hosts a refinery and petrochemical industries.
“There is immense knowledge in Oman’s oil and gas sector, and they are willing to transfer this expertise to Uganda. This partnership could significantly enhance our local capabilities in oil and gas development,” Kutesa noted.
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