Trade between Uganda and South Sudan has reached an estimated US$700 million, up from US$490 million in 2019. This growth has solidified South Sudan's position as a key export market for Uganda. Ugandan businesses supply various essential products, including food, construction materials, and manufactured goods, to its neighboring country. The increase in trade has been significant, and efforts are being made to further enhance cross-border commerce.
Despite the growth in trade, traders and private-sector representatives face several challenges. Lengthy customs clearance procedures, product-testing requirements, infrastructure gaps, and regulatory challenges increase the cost of doing business. These issues are expected to be discussed at the 2nd Uganda–South Sudan Business Forum and Exhibition, scheduled for October 14, 2026, in Kampala. The forum aims to identify practical solutions to barriers affecting trade between the two countries.
The forum will bring together government officials, private-sector organizations, traders, manufacturers, investors, and logistics providers. The event's theme, “Easing the Cost of Doing Business and Unlocking Regional Market Opportunities for Uganda and South Sudan,” highlights the focus on finding solutions to trade barriers. Brig. Gen. Bonny Bamwiseki, Defence Attaché and Head of Mission at the Ugandan Embassy in Juba, emphasized the importance of cultural, historical, and geographical ties in expanding commercial cooperation.
South Sudan’s Charge d’Affaires at its Embassy in Kampala, Akuol Abijok Deng, stressed the need to reduce border costs and delays to sustain trade growth and improve businesses' access to markets. She highlighted that high costs and delays at the border affect businesses and that the two countries must work together to create an environment where the private sector can drive bilateral relations and unlock opportunities.
Uganda's exports to South Sudan include grain and milling products, refined sugar, confectionery, iron and steel, cement, construction materials, beverages, processed foods, and animal and vegetable fats and oils. In return, South Sudan exports products such as scrap iron, scrap copper, and dried, salted or smoked fish to Uganda. The trade relationship between the two countries extends beyond merchandise trade to education, healthcare, and construction.
Ambassador Charles Ssentongo, representing the Permanent Secretary of Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the need to find pathways to enhance business between the nations and unlock opportunities to attract investment. He suggested that the conversation should focus on the regional context, positioning the trade corridor as a gateway to broader regional markets, including Sudan and the Central African Republic.
The forum is expected to address non-tariff barriers, simplify customs procedures, and strengthen the use of One-Stop Border Posts. Participants will also explore opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to expand market access, develop regional value chains, and increase the participation of women and young people in cross-border trade.
Key points
- Trade between Uganda and South Sudan has risen to an estimated US$700 million, up from US$490 million in 2019.
- The 2nd Uganda–South Sudan Business Forum and Exhibition will discuss ways to reduce border delays and regulatory barriers.
- The forum aims to unlock regional market opportunities and ease the cost of doing business between Uganda and South Sudan.
