Africa-Press – Uganda. Indonesia has expressed strong commitment to strengthening its economic ties with Uganda, particularly in the area of trade.
Speaking at the Uganda–Indonesia Business Forum held at Park Hyatt in Jakarta, the Indonesian Vice Minister of Trade, Mrs. Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri, said Indonesia is keen on deepening its partnership with Uganda to explore new investment and trade opportunities that benefit both nations.
“We’re committed to boosting trade with Uganda and ensuring that both countries benefit from stronger commercial ties,” said Mrs. Dyah.
“Indonesia sees Uganda as a strategic partner in East Africa with untapped potential across several sectors.”
The forum, organised by the High Commission of Uganda in Malaysia, brought together government officials, diplomats, and business leaders from both countries.
Its primary goal was to attract Indonesian investors to explore opportunities in Uganda’s growing economy.
Minister Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, who led Uganda’s delegation, welcomed Indonesian investors to consider Uganda as a strategic destination for investment.
He highlighted key sectors open for partnership including hotel chains, mining and mineral processing, oil and gas, ICT, and tourism.
The minister also underscored Uganda’s commitment to balancing trade relations and reducing the current trade gap.
“Our doors are open for investment. We are here to build lasting partnerships with Indonesian investors and encourage a two-way trade relationship that is mutually beneficial,” said Mbadi.
While Uganda’s trade with Indonesia remains modest, it shows signs of growth.
According to available figures, Uganda exported goods worth USD 39.43 million (Shs 154.5 billion) to Indonesia in 2023, consisting largely of cocoa, hides and skins, and oil seeds.
Meanwhile, Indonesia’s exports to Uganda stood at USD 16.88 million (Shs 66.2 billion), pointing to a trade surplus in Uganda’s favour.
Mrs. Dyah noted that Indonesia is ready to collaborate more closely with Uganda through increased business-to-business engagements, logistics improvement, and trade facilitation.
“We believe Uganda offers many investment opportunities, and we are eager to work together to unlock them,” she added.
The forum concluded with networking sessions between business leaders from both countries and a commitment from both governments to follow up on the outcomes to ensure practical implementation of investment intentions.
For More News And Analysis About Uganda Follow Africa-Press
