New infrastructure to unlock over sh3 trillion in fresh fruits, vegetables exports

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Uganda’s fresh fruits and vegetables (FFV) sector is poised for significant growth with new investments in cold chain infrastructure, addressing long-standing logistical challenges and boosting export capacity.

Currently generating $50-100 million in annual exports, the sector is projected to reach $1 billion (about shillings 3.6 trillion) with focused commercialisation and enhanced storage facilities.

This revelation is contained in a statement issued by the agriculture ministry on June 2, 2025.

Recognising Uganda’s fertile soils and favourable climate, the Government, in collaboration with private sector partners, has established cold chain facilities at Entebbe International Airport with a daily storage capacity of 500 tonnes.

Operating under Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) with DAS/FHL and Cargo Village (MENZIES), these modern facilities provide 1,000 square metres and 500 square metres of refrigerated storage space (in addition to the cold room facility that is being constructed by ABI Development Company), ensuring that the fresh fruits and vegetables sector products meet strict international market standards.

Complementing these efforts, private sector-led cold chains, including Afrodivine Stock, Biofresh, Agricado, and FPG, offer an additional 150 tonnes of daily storage capacity. To further fortify Uganda’s agricultural export landscape, the government, in collaboration with United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF) project, is set to develop two regional cold chains with a combined capacity of 200 tonnes per day, alongside a new 50-tonne facility at Entebbe Airport under the EU Sanitary- PhytoSanitary project whose construction is expected to take off next financial year.

These strategic investments are expected to reduce post-harvest losses, improve farmer incomes, and solidify Uganda’s presence in the global Fresh Fruits and Vegetables market.

Increased efficiency in storage and transportation will allow producers to maintain product quality, enhance competitiveness, and tap into high-demand international markets.

With infrastructure expansion underway, Uganda’s Fresh Fruits and Vegetables sector is on the path to becoming a leading global player, offering high-quality agricultural exports to markets across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.