Uganda has stepped up its global trade and investment outreach with a strong showing at the China Import and Export Fair, widely known as the Canton Fair, held in Guangzhou from May 1 to 5, 2026.
The biannual event, among the world’s largest trade exhibitions, brought together thousands of manufacturers, investors, and buyers, providing Uganda with a platform to expand exports, attract foreign direct investment, and deepen economic ties—particularly with China.
A delegation of Ugandan entrepreneurs showcased products ranging from coffee and shea butter to artisanal crafts. Exhibitors included Seedstar Specialty Coffee, Elyon Organics, Senela Organics, RhinoSeeds Africa, and Megkari Coffee.
Participants reported strong international interest in Ugandan products, especially coffee. Kawuki Annet, a representative of Seedstar Specialty Coffee, said the exposure elevated Uganda’s profile on the global market.
“The world now knows Uganda coffee. Visitors from across the globe were eager to taste it and learn more. This has opened doors to the global market,” she said.
Nanyombi Christian of Elyon Organics described the fair as an invaluable opportunity to connect with buyers and expand business networks.
Uganda’s delegation was led by Ambassador Juju Nsababera, Consul General in Guangzhou, alongside officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ugandan
Embassy in Beijing
Speaking on the sidelines of the exhibition, Ambassador Nsababera emphasized the importance of value addition, branding, and compliance with international standards.
“Participation in platforms like the Canton Fair demonstrates Uganda’s readiness to engage the world not just as a source of raw materials, but as a supplier of high-quality, value-added products,” she said.
She highlighted China’s vast consumer market of more than 1.4 billion people as a significant opportunity for Ugandan exporters.
Uganda’s pavilion, strategically positioned near a main entrance, attracted heavy foot traffic and translated into immediate commercial gains. Within the first days of the exhibition, exhibitors secured direct sales and confirmed orders for products including coffee, tea, crafts, and shea butter-based cosmetics.
Beyond trade, the pavilion also drew interest in Uganda as a tourism destination, with visitors inquiring about eco-tourism and cultural experiences.
Uganda’s participation comes at a time when trade relations with China continue to grow. Bilateral trade stands at approximately $1.46 billion annually, with Uganda exporting about $90 million in goods—mainly coffee, timber, oilseeds, and minerals—while imports from China exceed $1.3 billion, largely consisting of machinery, electronics, and industrial inputs.
Officials say participation in global trade expos is key to boosting exports, promoting industrialization, and rebalancing the trade relationship.
The fair also opened doors for investment opportunities, with interest recorded in sectors such as energy, mineral development, agro-processing, and manufacturing. Several preliminary discussions between Ugandan exhibitors and potential investors from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East are already underway.
Since its inception, the Canton Fair has connected businesses from more than 200 countries, cementing its role as a major gateway to global markets.
Ugandan officials expressed optimism that the engagements in Guangzhou will translate into long-term partnerships, increased export earnings, and concrete investment projects.
“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,” Ambassador Nsababera said.
The government encourages local entrepreneurs and cooperatives to use international platforms to position their products and attract investment aligned with national development priorities.