KAMPALA Uganda (UGNEWSLINE) – The Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority (UFZEPA), in collaboration with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), conducted a capacity-building training for Free Zone Developers, Operators and their Clearing Agents to strengthen tax compliance and improve operational efficiency within Uganda’s Free Zones.
The training, held on Friday, November 6, 2026, at URA offices in Nakawa, Kampala, focused on Customs procedures, Domestic Taxes and other tax-related matters critical to the effective management and operation of Free Zones.
The engagement aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of the applicable tax frameworks, regulatory requirements and compliance procedures governing Free Zone operations. Key areas covered included Free Zone procedures, Income Tax, Withholding Tax (WHT), Value Added Tax (VAT), Excise Duty and Stamp Duty.
Participants were encouraged to strengthen their compliance practices by maintaining proper documentation, adhering to established Customs and tax procedures, and ensuring accountability across their operations. They were also reminded of the importance of ensuring that goods destined for international markets meet the required quality and international standards.
Speaking during the training, Ms. Stella Ayikoru, Manager, Investor Support, Department of Economic Zones, Operations and Compliance at UFZEPA, emphasised that the Authority’s commitment to investors extends beyond licensing and establishment to include continuous support and investment aftercare.
“Real support proves itself at the aftercare stage. This is where we support investors in acquiring secondary licences, permits and approvals from other government ministries, departments and agencies. UFZEPA also works closely with URA on customs set-up and on-site clearances,” she said.
Ms. Ayikoru further noted that UFZEPA serves as a central point of contact for investors when operational bottlenecks arise. The Authority also monitors investor performance and compliance while facilitating licence renewals and business expansion.
The training reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between UFZEPA and URA in fostering an enabling business environment for Free Zone enterprises. By strengthening investors’ understanding of tax obligations and operational procedures, the two institutions seek to promote compliance, improve efficiency and enhance the competitiveness of Uganda’s export sector.
Through continued capacity-building and investor support initiatives, UFZEPA remains committed to guiding Free Zone investors throughout their investment journey from establishment and operations to expansion while positioning Uganda as an attractive destination for export-oriented investment.
