Uganda makes successful debut at global food, beverages exhibition

Uganda has made a strong debut at Gulfood 2026, one of the world’s largest food and beverage trade exhibition, marking a significant step in the country’s push to expand exports and deepen access to international markets.

Uganda participated for the first time under the Made in Uganda brand at the Dubai-based exhibition held January 26-30, 2026, drawing strong interest from buyers, distributors, investors and industry leaders from the Middle East, Asia and Europe.

Uganda’s pavilion showcased a range of value-added agricultural products, including coffee, cocoa, spices, avocado oil and dried fruits, according to  statement released by Foreign Affairs ministry on Sunday.

Exhibitors reported keen interest in the quality, branding and packaging of Ugandan products, signalling the country’s gradual shift away from exporting unprocessed raw materials towards supplying finished, market-ready goods that meet international standards.

The participation was led by Ambassador Aisa Ismail, with support from Counsellor Erina Zalwango, Counsellor Jeff Bayiga and first secretary Asha Nabbanja, who coordinated business engagements and trade promotion activities throughout the exhibition.

Technical and logistical support was provided by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MoSTI), under Minister Dr Monica Musenero, whose team facilitated product presentation, production support and exhibition organisation.

Uganda’s appearance at Gulfood comes amid renewed government efforts to boost export earnings through value addition, agro-industrialisation and market diversification.

Agriculture employs more than two-thirds of Uganda’s population and remains a major source of foreign exchange, with coffee alone accounting for the largest share of export receipts.

However, Uganda has historically exported most of its agricultural output in raw or semi-processed form, limiting earnings and exposing producers to volatile global commodity prices.

In recent years, government policy has increasingly focused on supporting processing, branding and certification to enable Ugandan products to compete in high-value international markets.

The Middle East is one of Uganda’s fastest-growing export destinations, particularly for coffee, tea, fresh produce and processed foods.

Participation in global trade fairs such as Gulfood is seen as a key pillar of economic and commercial diplomacy, helping Ugandan firms secure buyers, build distribution networks and attract investment into agro-processing.