PRESS RELEASE : British Chamber of Commerce opens office in Uganda to promote trade & investment [September 2024]

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 18 September 2024.

The organisation will use the business community’s influence to engage on trade policy, and reducing barriers to entry to increase Trade and Investment.

The British Chamber of Commerce, which is currently operational in a number of other African countries, will be a catalyst for business success by providing a range of business support and trade promotion services. From networking opportunities, business advocacy, educational seminars and exclusive members benefits, the Chamber is dedicated to helping UK businesses in Uganda of all sizes to prosper.

The Chamber of Commerce’s main objective is to promote better trade links between the UK and Uganda and increase trade and investment. The UK private sector is a major investor in Uganda’s development and has the knowledge, experience to help drive Uganda’s economic growth. The UK always strives to be at the forefront of delivering quality products and services, shaping policy, and providing technology advancement, especially in the climate, energy, agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare sectors.

The British Chamber of Commerce will be a powerful tool that will drive our relationship forward and build a better future for both countries.

The launch event was held at the British High Commissioner’s residence and brought together business leaders, government officials and community members to witness the start of an exciting journey. Attendees had the opportunity to network, learn more about the benefits of becoming a member and heard from distinguished speakers including Henry Musasizi, Minister of State for General Duties who was the Guest of Honour.

H.E. Kate Airey OBE, the British High Commissioner to Uganda said:

As the economy and investment environment became more difficult, we need to strengthen our community in order to succeed. That is why I am delighted to be launching the British Chamber of Commerce Uganda, which will help all of us. Individually our voice is small, but collectively, we can partner to support Uganda’s growth. The UK private sector has invested billions into Uganda’s economy, but our collective brand should be stronger. Having a chamber will give us the platform to strengthen the relationship between the UK and Uganda.

Sanjay Rughani, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank and Founding Member of the BCCU said:

I am very pleased to be launching the British Chamber of Commerce Uganda as one if its founding members… We want to be the trusted voice of British business in Uganda, advocating for our members’ interests, facilitating networking and collaboration, and contributing to economic prosperity of both nations.

Henry Musasizi, the Minister of State for General Duties said:

The British Chamber of Commerce provides an excellent business eco-system that provides a unique opportunity for connecting several businesses and brands in both Uganda and the UK.

Our government, under the steadfast stewardship of H.E. President Museveni has consistently, both in terms policy direction and action, emphasized the importance of attracting both trade and investment as key drivers for advancing socio-economic transformation in Uganda. The UK as a Development partner will play a critical role in terms of trade, investment and technical expertise.

Members of the British Chamber of Commerce will have access to exclusive benefits including:

• connections to government and private sector organisations in the UK and Uganda
• invitations to networking events
• briefings and forums on topical issues
• access to trade delegations supported by the Chamber
• access to information released by the other British Chambers of Commerce around the world,
• invitations to events in London hosted by the British Chambers of Commerce Headquarters

Membership fees start at $650 per annum. There are 3 tiers of membership, plus an additional higher tier only available in the first year.

The criteria for membership includes:

• British companies
• a company with British directors or shareholders
• any Ugandan company doing business with or in partnership with a UK company