Uganda-DRC Business Forum and Expo: Unlocking Cross-Border Trade Potential

Driving Economic Integration: The Uganda-DRC Business Connect Forum

The recently launched Uganda-DRC Business Connect Forum and Expo in Butembo marks a pivotal moment in the economic landscapes of both nations. Held from October 17 to 18, 2025, this initiative is designed to deepen commercial ties and enhance trade relationships between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a move hailed as integral for socio-economic transformation.

Building Strategic Partnerships

With the theme "Strengthening Business Linkages for Socio-Economic Transformation," the forum assembled senior officials and business leaders from both countries. H.E. Julien Paluku, the DRC’s Minister of External Trade, alongside Gen. Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, Uganda’s Minister of State for Trade, emphasized the need for collaboration in addressing trade barriers and enhancing economic exchanges. Over 50 Ugandan enterprises across various sectors, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, showcased their offerings, engaging directly with Congolese businesses from major commercial hubs. This blend of participation strengthens economic networks crucial for growth in the region.

Facilitating Trade and Investment

The support from international partners like the European Union and TradeMark Africa under the Peaceful and Resilient Borderlands Program highlights the importance of shared economic growth. This program focuses on transforming cross-border trade into a vehicle for peace and resilience. By facilitating the free movement of goods and empowering small-scale traders, the forum aims to create a more sustainable economic environment.

Infrastructure Development: A Game-Changer for Trade

Infrastructure projects such as the Mpondwe/Kasindi-Beni Road, Beni-Butembo Road, and the Bunagana-Rutshuru-Goma Road are critical components of this initiative. The completion of these vital transport corridors is expected to significantly enhance access to markets for Ugandan products, ultimately boosting exports. The rising trade statistics are indicative of this upward momentum, with Uganda's exports to the DRC nearing $1 billion and DRC's exports to Uganda showing a substantial increase.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Uganda-DRC Trade Relations

The success of the Uganda-DRC Business Connect Forum could potentially set a precedent for similar initiatives in other regions of Africa. By removing non-tariff barriers like administrative bottlenecks and discriminatory taxation, both governments aim to ensure a transparent and secure trade environment. This foundational work paves the way for sustained economic cooperation and development, indicating a promising future for bilateral trade relations.

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Uganda-DRC Business Forum and Expo: Unlocking Cross-Border Trade Potential

Driving Economic Integration: The Uganda-DRC Business Connect Forum

Building Strategic Partnerships

Facilitating Trade and Investment

Infrastructure Development: A Game-Changer for Trade

Looking Ahead: The Future of Uganda-DRC Trade Relations

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