OPINION: Fewer Export Interceptions Signal Uganda’s Growing Competitiveness in Global Markets

What the report says

Watchdog Uganda published an opinion piece arguing that Uganda’s export sector is becoming more competitive in global markets as international interceptions of agricultural shipments decline. The commentary, written by Rowland Bon Nkahebwa, says the country’s progress depends on meeting food safety, documentation and traceability standards demanded by buyers in the European Union, United Kingdom, North America and other tightly regulated destinations.

Citing figures attributed to the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID), the article says Uganda’s fresh horticultural exports faced 105 interceptions in 2022, but only 33 interceptions in the first half of 2026. It says most of the remaining cases were linked to paperwork and traceability gaps, followed by pest-related issues and a smaller number of pesticide residue breaches. The piece presents the decline as evidence that exporters, regulators and inspection systems are improving compliance.

The opinion piece also highlights planned and ongoing reforms meant to support export growth, including a proposed Food and Agricultural Regulatory Authority to streamline oversight, a fresh produce and coffee centre at Entebbe International Airport, and digitized inspection and certification systems. It argues that exporters still need stronger internal controls, better record keeping and more training for farmers and handlers. More broadly, the article frames export compliance as important for market access, buyer confidence and Uganda’s long-term ambition to grow higher-value agricultural exports.