Free Access | April 2026

From Trade Deficit to Strategic Partnership: Leveraging Uganda-India Trade Relations for Uganda’s Ten-Fold Growth Strategy

Authors/Editors: Isaac M.B. Shinyekwa (PhD) ,  Aida Kibirige Nattabi ,  Philemon Okillong ,  Menya Emmanuel

Abstract:

This policy brief examines the structure of Uganda-India trade relations and identifies opportunities to align the partnership with Uganda’s Ten-Fold Growth Strategy. The findings reveal a persistent structural imbalance, with Uganda exporting predominantly low-value primary commodities while importing higher-value manufactured goods. Uganda’s position in India’s global trade remains marginal, accounting for less than 0.5 percent of total imports over the 2005-2024 period. In contrast, India plays a more significant role in Uganda’s trade, with its share of Uganda’s imports remaining above 5 percent in 2024. Despite this imbalance, India presents strategic opportunities for Uganda’s industrialisation, particularly in agro-processing, mineral beneficiation, ICT, and services. To address the identified constraints, the brief recommends strengthening value addition, improving market access and standards compliance, leveraging Indian investment for export-oriented industrialisation, promoting digital trade partnerships, and enhancing the overall business and investment environment.