PACEID, UNDP launch US market entry training for Ugandan Exporters

The Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), officially launched an export readiness training program on Monday, August 14th, 2023.

The program is meant to equip Ugandan exporters with the necessary tools and insights to effectively navigate and penetrate the highly competitive United States market.

Recognizing the immense opportunities within the United States market, with its substantial consumer expenditure of USD 18 trillion, PACEID and UNDP have taken the initiative to facilitate Ugandan businesses in expanding their market presence. Successfully accessing the US market necessitates an in-depth understanding of its intricate dynamics, given its complexities.

The launch event was attended by Odrek Rwabwogo, Chairman of PACEID, Nicholas Burunde, a UNDP Representative, Mrs. Suzan Muhwezi of the AGOA Country Response Unit, Mrs. Olive Kigongo, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Mr. Cleopas Ndolerire, Commissioner for External Trade at the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives.

The training program was commissioned by this group, with the attendance of Mrs. Henrietta Wamala, President of UNNA, and Cody Lorance, Uganda’s Trade Representative on Coffee in Chicago.

In his remarks, Chairman Odrek Rwabwogo expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his support of PACEID’s export initiatives and for encouraging the participation of government institutions in the export readiness training. Rwabwogo acknowledged the support from Mr. Kamanzi of the Chicago African Chamber of Commerce and the UN Resident Representative office.

He noted the importance of ensuring product compliance with market standards in global trade, and introduced the US Export Preparedness Training, led by Dr. Chuiri Robert, a certified AGOA trainer.

“We have taken a significant step towards launching the US Export Preparedness Training. This initiative is pivotal in equipping Ugandan exporters with the knowledge needed to effectively engage the US market,” said Mr Rwabwogo.

Over 30 Ugandan exporters from 13 priority sectors attended the online training launch. These sectors include Banana, Coffee, Dried Fruits, Fresh Produce, Leather, Vanilla, Cow Horn, Dairy, Tourism, Grain, and Cocoa. The five-day training program, led by industry experts, will provide participants with practical insights and strategies essential for thriving in the US market.

The training covers crucial areas such as targeted market research, regulatory compliance guidance, effective marketing strategies, supply chain optimization, and cultural sensitivity training.

Dr. Chuiri Robert, Founder and CEO of Global Standards USA, shared his eagerness for collaborating with Ugandan exporters to empower their businesses to excel in the US market.

This collaborative initiative between PACEID, UNDP, and Uganda’s Trade Representative to North America, Olivier Kamanzi, aims to enhance Uganda’s key export sectors while anticipating increased exports to the US. The program also aims to strengthen US exports to Uganda, particularly in technology, vehicles, and smartphones.