What changed
2026-10-25 08:14 UTC → 2026-10-26 14:24 UTC ·
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Uganda export sector and macroeconomic developments
Uganda has seen significant growth in its Uganda’s export sectors, driven by both sectors continue to show strength, particularly in organic agriculture and precious metals. In 2025, the The organic agriculture sector recorded approximately USD 225.7 million in exports, exports in 2025, with the number of certified organic farmers growing to 744,288. This growth positions Uganda among the world’s top three countries by the number of certified organic farmers. To support this industry, capitalize on this, the country is set to will host Africa’s first Organic and Nature Expo (ONE) in Kampala in from November 4 to 7, 2026. Additionally, gold Gold exports experienced remain a primary driver, with a 68.9% year-on-year increase in August 2026, reaching $889 million and accounting for roughly 59% of the country’s total merchandise export value. This surge is attributed to Uganda’s role as a regional hub for refining and re-exporting gold from neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan, alongside high international prices. Total merchandise exports for August 2026 reached $1.5 billion, a 36% increase from $1.1 billion in August 2025. Despite these gains, However, the trade balance remains under pressure; economy faces significant pressure from inflation and currency depreciation. Annual headline inflation rose to 4.6% in July September 2026, a 25.4% rise in imports led to a $210 million trade deficit. In response to currency volatility driven by food, transport, and inflation, energy costs. The Ugandan shilling has reached its weakest level since 1993, influenced by rising US bond yields and foreign investor withdrawals. In response, the Bank of Uganda raised its main interest rate from 7% the Central Bank Rate to 8.5% 12.0% to stabilize the shilling. To further diversify revenue, the government is looking toward currency. While foreign exchange reserves stand at approximately $6.7 billion, President Yoweri Museveni has urged a focus on increasing exports and tourism rather than utilizing reserves for market intervention. Additionally, the commencement Bank of commercial crude oil production in early 2027. Uganda has entered a cooperation agreement with EIB Global to manage climate-related risks and attract green investment.