In brief
Uganda announced that its participation in China’s Canton Fair will enhance domestic value addition of agricultural products. The ministry said the move could help retain more export earnings, create jobs, and improve farmers’ incomes. Uganda had 10 exhibitors, including coffee and shea‑butter producers, and officials highlighted the importance of keeping value within the country rather than exporting raw materials and importing finished goods.
Uganda announced on Sunday that its participation in China’s bi‑annual Canton Fair is aimed at increasing domestic value‑addition for agricultural products, according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs released after the fair ended on November 8.
The government said the fair “could help retain more export earnings, create jobs at home and raise farmers’ incomes through increased local processing and packaging.”
Judyth Nsababera, head of Uganda’s consulate in Guangzhou, said the country’s goal was to keep value inside Uganda.
Our participation was more than exhibiting products. It was about value addition, value retention, and prosperity along the value chain, from farmer to buyer.
Uganda was represented by 10 exhibitors this year – five coffee companies, two shea‑butter producers and three craft businesses – the ministry said.
Officials also noted that retaining more of the value chain at home would help keep export earnings from leaving the country and create more employment opportunities locally.
The Canton Fair, held every summer and winter, is one of the world’s largest trade fairs, drawing buyers from across Asia and beyond.
Uganda hopes the partnerships formed at the fair will lead to technology transfers and training that empower local farmers and small businesses.
The Ministry also highlighted that diversifying products and processing capabilities can reduce Uganda’s dependence on raw commodity exports.
The government is also seeking to secure investment in local processing facilities through collaborations identified during the event.