GUANGZHOU, CHINA
Uganda has strengthened its trade, investment, and diplomatic engagement with Asia through participation at the 139th China Import and Export Fair, widely known as the Canton Fair. Held in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province from 1 to 5 May 2026, the event is one of the world’s largest trade exhibitions, attracting global buyers, investors, and manufacturers. Uganda’s participation aimed at expanding exports, attracting foreign direct investment, and deepening economic partnerships, particularly with China.
Ugandan entrepreneurs from the coffee, shea butter, and artisanal crafts sectors, including Seedstar Specialty Coffee, Elyon Organics, Senela Organics, RhinoSeeds Africa, and Megkari Coffee, showcased products that received strong international interest. Exhibitors noted that Uganda coffee and organic products attracted visitors from across the world, describing the exposure as an eye-opening opportunity that placed Uganda on a higher global trade platform and opened doors to international markets. They expressed appreciation to the Consulate General for enabling their participation and the valuable experience gained.
The Ugandan delegation was led by Ambassador Judyth Nsababera, Consul General in Guangzhou, alongside senior officials from Uganda’s diplomatic missions. She emphasised that Uganda’s participation reflects a shift from exporting raw materials to offering value-added, high-quality products, stressing the importance of branding, consistency, and compliance with international standards for global competitiveness. She further highlighted China’s large consumer market as a major opportunity for well-prepared Ugandan exporters.
The Uganda pavilion, strategically located near a main entrance, attracted significant foot traffic, resulting in immediate commercial interest. Within the opening days, several Ugandan products including coffee, tea, crafts, and shea butter-based products secured confirmed orders and direct sales, reflecting rising global demand for Ugandan goods rooted in quality and authenticity. The pavilion also generated interest in Uganda’s tourism sector, with visitors inquiring about travel, eco-tourism, and cultural experiences.
Uganda’s participation also opened investment discussions in sectors such as agro-processing, manufacturing, energy, and mineral development, with several exploratory partnerships initiated. Officials noted that such platforms support Uganda’s Economic and Commercial Diplomacy agenda by boosting exports, promoting industrialization, and attracting foreign direct investment. The engagement is expected to strengthen Uganda’s global trade positioning and enhance long-term economic transformation through expanded market access and investment opportunities.
Amb. Nsababera (R) addresses Chinese Media, and (C) and (L) engaging with visitors at the Uganda stall
The Uganda stall at the Canton Fair
