Manufacturers push for competitive business environment at 3rd Pre-Budget Breakfast Dialogue

Manufacturers and private sector leaders have called for policy reforms and fiscal measures to support Uganda’s industrial growth during the 3rd Pre-Budget Breakfast Dialogue 2026 currently underway at Silver Springs Hotel in Kampala.

The high-level engagement, convened by the Uganda Manufacturers Association, has brought together manufacturers, policymakers, tax experts, and development partners to deliberate on priorities that should shape the country’s upcoming national budget.

Discussions at the forum are focusing on key challenges affecting the manufacturing sector, including the rising cost of production, proposed tax measures, limited access to affordable financing, infrastructure gaps, and strategies to strengthen Uganda’s industrial competitiveness.

Opening the dialogue, State Minister for Industry David Bahati underscored the importance of strong collaboration between government and the private sector in driving industrial growth.

“Collaboration between government and industry is key to creating a competitive and growth-oriented manufacturing sector,” Bahati said, noting that constructive engagement helps policymakers better understand the operational challenges businesses face.

He added that dialogue between manufacturers, policymakers, and tax experts provides an opportunity to address fiscal and regulatory constraints while ensuring that industry perspectives inform national budget priorities.

The Executive Director of the Uganda Manufacturers Association, Ezra Muhumuza Rubanda, said the platform is critical for strengthening dialogue between government and industry stakeholders.

“This platform provides a vital opportunity for manufacturers to engage with policymakers, share insights, and advocate for a thriving industrial sector,” Rubanda said.

Echoing the importance of the sector, UMA Board Chairman Aga Sekalala Jr. emphasized the multiplier effect of manufacturing on the economy.

“Manufacturing is the cornerstone of economic growth. One job in manufacturing generates seven more jobs across the value chain,” Sekalala noted in his opening remarks.

Tax policy and administration were also key themes during the dialogue. John Jet Tusabe, Director of Taxation Services at BDO Uganda, highlighted administrative challenges within the tax system that affect manufacturers’ compliance and operational efficiency.

Tusabe outlined practical recommendations aimed at streamlining tax processes, improving clarity in compliance requirements, and creating a more predictable and supportive tax environment for manufacturers.

Trade opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area were also discussed. Anna Nambooze, Country Director for TradeMark Africa in Uganda and South Sudan, presented on the critical role of trade facilitation in enabling Ugandan manufacturers to tap into regional markets.

She noted that effective implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area framework could help Uganda boost intra-African trade, reduce non-tariff barriers, and enhance the competitiveness of local businesses.

The dialogue continues to serve as a platform for industry stakeholders and policymakers to examine fiscal issues and share actionable proposals ahead of the national budget, with the aim of fostering a more enabling environment for investment, industrial growth, and job creation in Uganda.