KAMPALA – The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the China Certification and Inspection Group (CCIC) to foster bilateral cooperation and promote the export readiness of Ugandan products for the Chinese market.
The agreement aims to enhance mutual understanding, institutional capacity, and the development of standards and conformity assessment systems.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Eng. James Kasigwa, Executive Director of UNBS, emphasized the critical role of standards in trade. “Standards and trade are like two sides of the same coin. Without meeting market standards, products cannot compete or even gain entry,” he said.
“Through this MoU, we’re helping our local MSMEs produce for both local and international markets, especially China, which is the manufacturing hub of the world.” he added.
He further noted that the collaboration supports Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the 10-fold growth strategy aimed at boosting exports, reducing imports, and building local industries.
“This partnership will help ensure that Ugandan products from agriculture to minerals meet the rigorous standards of the Chinese market. Our testing and certification schemes will now be harmonized with theirs,” Eng. Kasigwa said.
For years, Ugandan exports such as coffee and tea have faced difficulties entering the Chinese market due to non-compliance with technical standards. The MoU seeks to remove such barriers by facilitating mutual recognition of certifications and boosting product quality assurance.
Mr. Zhonghui Guo, General Manager of CCIC East Africa, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting UNBS. “We are planning to establish a new laboratory in Uganda, enhance product and factory inspections, and issue certificates that are recognized in China and beyond,” he said.
“Our aim is to help Ugandan-made goods become more competitive globally.” he added.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Under the MoU, UNBS and CCIC will work together to:
- Exchange information on standards, technical regulations, and conformity assessment.
- Conduct joint training programs, workshops, and seminars to build local capacity.
- Share expertise, technical publications, and best practices in quality infrastructure.
- Form joint technical committees to address priority sectors.
- Explore mutual recognition agreements for standards and certifications.
- Strengthen collaboration under global frameworks such as ISO, IEC, and Codex Alimentarius.
This agreement marks a significant step in Uganda’s trade development agenda and reaffirms the importance of standardization in unlocking global market access for local enterprises. Both UNBS and CCIC see the partnership as a strategic move to facilitate fair and efficient trade between Uganda and China.
