Strengthening COMESA Trade: Indian Business Forum Engages Key Stakeholders in Uganda
Today marked a crucial step in addressing challenges related to COMESA trade for the Indian Business Forum (IBF) as they convened a pivotal meeting with Hon. Ntabazi Harriet, the Minister of State for Trade in Uganda. This significant gathering also included the Business Counselor from the Egyptian Embassy, representatives from the Uganda Manufacturing Association, and officials from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Custom Department. The meeting aimed to find practical solutions to COMESA importation issues faced by Indian businesses.
The discussions centered around two critical aspects that have been affecting the seamless movement of goods: import duties and the Certificate of Origin.
Regarding the matter of import duties, the IBF, together with the Egyptian Embassy Business Counselor, raised pertinent concerns. Hon. Minister Ntabazi Harriet responded positively and expressed her willingness to organize the next meeting with the Ministry of Finance. This crucial session will provide a platform to deliberate on the prevailing import duties and explore ways to streamline the process, ensuring fair and efficient trade between Egypt and Uganda under the COMESA framework.
The issue of Certificate of Origin was another focal point of the meeting, and the URA Custom Department provided valuable insights to address the matter effectively. To simplify the process and prevent delays, the URA Custom advised businesses to conduct pre-verification using the URA Help Tool before the goods arrive in Uganda. This proactive approach is expected to enhance the efficiency of the certification process and facilitate quicker clearance of shipments, saving valuable time and resources for the Indian business community.
The engagement between the IBF, the Ugandan government officials, and other key stakeholders showcased the power of collaborative efforts in finding practical solutions to trade-related challenges. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the meeting proved to be a significant step in fostering a more conducive environment for COMESA trade.
The commitment demonstrated by Hon. Minister Ntabazi Harriet and her eagerness to facilitate dialogue with the Ministry of Finance is a positive sign of the government’s dedication to addressing the concerns raised by the Indian business community. This proactive approach to resolving issues is essential in fostering a harmonious and mutually beneficial trade relationship between India and Uganda.
As the discussions continue, the Indian Business Forum remains optimistic about the future of COMESA trade. By actively engaging with government authorities and key stakeholders, they aim to unlock new opportunities and create a more seamless and efficient trade landscape.
In conclusion, the meeting held on June 16th, 2023, serves as a testament to the Indian Business Forum’s commitment to navigating COMESA trade challenges. By collaborating with Hon. Ntabazi Harriet, the Egyptian Embassy Business Counselor, Uganda Manufacturing Association, and the URA Custom Department, the IBF has taken a significant step forward in finding viable solutions for the Indian business community. As these efforts unfold, the prospects for enhanced trade relations between India and Uganda within the COMESA framework are undoubtedly promising.