President Museveni Urges Focus on Intra-African Trade as U.S. Sets 10% Tariff
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has reaffirmed the country’s shift towards regional and alternative global markets in response to a new 10% import tariff imposed by the United States on goods from most countries.
In a nationally broadcast speech on Thursday via the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC), Museveni encouraged Ugandans to seize opportunities within Africa's vast and growing market.
“Trump has put a tax, what shall we do? You have Africa, work on Africa,” Museveni said, highlighting the continent's immense potential. “In the next 30 years, the population of Africa will be the biggest in the world. It will be one quarter of the human race.”
The president’s remarks come amid ongoing efforts by Uganda to diversify its export destinations beyond traditional partners. Odrek Rwabwogo, Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development, told local media that Uganda is already exploring promising markets in Europe and Asia.
The United Kingdom, in particular, has shown increased demand for Ugandan coffee and grains. With Uganda Airlines expected to launch flights to the UK soon, officials are optimistic about expanding exports to include more products like bananas and additional agricultural goods.
Trade data from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative shows that in 2024, total goods trade between Uganda and the U.S. reached $238.9 million. Uganda exported $132.6 million worth of goods to the U.S., while imports from the U.S. totaled $106.3 million.
As global trade dynamics shift, Uganda appears poised to strengthen its position within Africa and tap into emerging opportunities across Europe and Asia.
