Uganda Courts Chinese Investors to Boost Agro-Exports

Uganda has intensified efforts to grow its agricultural exports and attract investment after a high-level trade and investment forum held in Changsha, China.

The Embassy of Uganda in Beijing organised the Uganda–China (Changsha) Agricultural Trade and Investment Forum on March 19, 2026. The meeting brought together government officials, investors, and business leaders from both countries. Discussions focused on expanding opportunities in agriculture and agro-processing.

Uganda’s Ambassador to China, Oliver Wonekha, said China’s zero-tariff policy on selected African exports presents new opportunities for Uganda. She noted that the policy can help Uganda increase its presence in the Chinese market, especially by moving from exporting raw produce to higher-value agricultural products.

Wonekha added that the embassy remains committed to strengthening Uganda-China relations and promoting investment, trade, and tourism between the two countries.

Participants discussed key areas of cooperation such as agro-industrialisation, mechanisation, technology transfer, cold chain logistics, tourism, mineral development, and agricultural innovation. They also explored ways to fast-track joint ventures and boost Uganda’s production capacity through technology sharing.

Interest was also renewed in major projects like the Uganda–Hunan Industrial Park, which is expected to support value addition and export growth.

Justine Kasigwa Agaba, Director of the Investor One-Stop Centre, highlighted Uganda’s investment potential and invited Chinese investors to explore available opportunities. She said the Uganda Investment Authority will support investors through its one-stop centre.

Officials said the forum supports Uganda’s wider strategy to increase exports to China, attract long-term investment, and strengthen partnerships.