Overview:
Uganda and Japan move to deepen bilateral trade following a $14 million exchange in 2025. Minister David Bahati and UFZEPA officials outline new investment strategies and export growth plans.
KAMPALA, Uganda — Trade between Uganda and Japan reached $14 million in 2025, a figure driven largely by exports of coffee, flowers, vanilla, fish, and cocoa beans.
The data was released Wednesday during a networking event organized by the Embassy of Japan and the Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority. The gathering was designed to deepen bilateral relations and showcase the region’s industrial potential to Japanese investors.
David Bahati, the minister of state for industry, said the government remains committed to expanding these trade ties. He cited Uganda’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka as a pivotal moment for the country to market its industrial achievements on a global stage.
During the meeting, officials reaffirmed a memorandum of understanding signed in June 2025 between the export authority and the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The agreement focuses on improving market access and facilitating direct investment into Uganda’s industrial sector.
Hez Kimoomi Alinda, executive director of the Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority, said the partnership with Japanese stakeholders creates a trajectory for sustained industrial growth. He noted that the authority would follow up the event with targeted trade missions and investor forums to maintain momentum.
Yoshida Norimasa, deputy head of mission at the Japanese Embassy, said the networking platform serves as a vital bridge for the two private sectors to connect and grow.