Uganda, DRC launch business forum in Butembo
Uganda and Congo launched a business forum on Friday to strengthen trade ties between the two nations. The event took place in Butembo in eastern Congo with officials from both governments and dozens of companies attending. More than 50 Ugandan firms displayed products ranging from farm goods to construction materials for Congolese buyers.
Ambassador Farid Kaliisa said Uganda serves as a gateway for trade into eastern Congo. Both countries are building three major roads to improve market access and reduce transportation costs. Trade between the nations has grown sharply with Ugandan exports to Congo rising from 432 million dollars in 2017 to 981 million dollars this year.
The European Union and TradeMark Africa funded the forum through a program that promotes cross-border commerce and peace. Leaders from both sides called for removing administrative barriers that slow trade. Officials expressed confidence that cooperation will push Ugandan exports past 2 billion dollars soon.
