Guangzhou, China: Uganda has intensified its push for exports, investment, and global market access after a strong showing at the 139th China Import and Export Fair, popularly known as the Canton Fair, where Ugandan products attracted buyers, investors, and tourism interest from across the world.
Held in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province between May 1 and 5, the global trade exhibition brought together thousands of exhibitors and buyers from more than 200 countries, with Uganda using the platform to market value-added products and attract foreign direct investment.
Ugandan exhibitors included Seedstar Specialty Coffee, Elyon Organics, Senela Organics, RhinoSeeds Africa, and Megkari Coffee, showcasing products ranging from coffee and shea butter to artisanal crafts. The Uganda pavilion reportedly drew heavy traffic and immediate commercial interest due to its strategic positioning near one of the fair’s main entrances.
Representatives of Ugandan businesses described the exhibition as a breakthrough moment for local exports. “The world now knows Uganda coffee. Visitors from across the globe were smelling the coffee, tasting it, and wanting to learn more,” said Kawuki Annet of Seedstar Specialty Coffee.
Nanyombi Christian of Elyon Organics also praised the opportunity, describing the fair as an “incredible experience” that opened doors to international markets.
The Ugandan delegation was led by Juju Nsababera and included Ambassador Henry Mayega, Amb. Maj. Gen (Rtd) Geoffrey Muheesi, and Brig. Gen. Joseph Kigozi.
Speaking on the sidelines of the fair, Ambassador Nsababera emphasized the need for branding, packaging, and international standards compliance if Ugandan products are to compete globally.
“Uganda’s presence at the Canton Fair sends a clear message: we are open for business, ready to partner, and committed to deeper integration into global value chains,” she said.
Confirmed Orders and Tourism Interest
Officials confirmed that several Ugandan products secured direct sales and confirmed orders during the exhibition, including coffee, tea, crafts, and shea butter-based products.
The pavilion also generated fresh interest in Uganda’s tourism sector, with visitors inquiring about eco-tourism, cultural experiences, and leisure travel opportunities.
Uganda’s participation comes amid expanding trade ties with China, currently valued at approximately US$1.46 billion annually. Uganda exports about US$90 million worth of goods to China, mainly coffee, timber, oil seeds, and minerals, while imports exceed US$1.3 billion.
Government officials believe international trade platforms like the Canton Fair are critical for increasing exports, promoting value addition, and attracting strategic investment into sectors such as agro-processing, manufacturing, energy, and mineral development.
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