Zimbabwe is making significant strides to expand its trade footprint in East Africa, with ZimTrade concluding a comprehensive market scan in Uganda on March 5, 2025. This initiative, which began on February 24, sought to identify high-potential export opportunities in key sectors such as processed foods, manufacturing, protective clothing, and building materials.
This strategic move aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader goal of tapping into non-traditional markets while leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The market scan in Uganda marks a crucial step in this direction, paving the way for Zimbabwean businesses to explore new trade avenues and strengthen regional economic ties.
ZimTrade Chief Executive Officer Allan Majuru emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating that it provided “valuable insights for Zimbabwean businesses looking to enter the Ugandan market.” He added, “This initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen trade relations with Uganda and ensure local exporters capitalize on opportunities presented by regional agreements.”
Beyond research, the market scan facilitated direct engagements between Zimbabwean businesses and Ugandan distributors, manufacturers, and key industry players. “The information gathered will help our exporters understand market trends, consumer preferences, and regulatory requirements in Uganda, ensuring a smooth entry into the market,” Majuru explained.
Uganda’s import market has seen substantial growth, rising from US$9.09 billion in 2021 to US$11.78 billion in 2023, reflecting a thriving and expanding economy. At the same time, Zimbabwean exports to Uganda have shown promising trends, with the recent market scan expected to further boost trade volumes.
A game-changing development for trade efficiency is the recent launch of direct flights between Harare and Entebbe by Uganda Airlines. This new route is set to reduce logistical costs and enhance cargo movement, improving the competitiveness of Zimbabwean exports in the Ugandan market.
Several sectors stand to benefit significantly from Uganda’s growing demand. Personal protective equipment (PPE), processed foods, building materials, and citrus are among the industries poised for strong market penetration. Uganda’s booming construction sector, driven by rapid urbanization and large-scale infrastructure projects, presents lucrative opportunities for Zimbabwean exporters. Additionally, the country’s expanding middle class has created a higher demand for processed food products, while its thriving agricultural industry offers a ready market for premium citrus imports.
With these developments, Zimbabwe is well-positioned to strengthen its presence in East Africa, unlocking new trade corridors and fostering deeper economic ties with Uganda.
