Speaker of Parliament Jacob Marksons Oboth has called for increased access to the Chinese market for Ugandan coffee, fish and processed products, saying China’s duty-free policy for African goods presents an opportunity for local farmers and manufacturers.
Oboth made the remarks after meeting Zheng Jianbang, Vice Chairperson of the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress, on the sidelines of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in New Delhi, India.
Oboth said Uganda and China should build on their longstanding diplomatic relations by expanding trade and strengthening cooperation between their parliaments.
“China’s decision to open its market to African products without tariffs gives our farmers and manufacturers a real opportunity, and I hope to see more Ugandan coffee, fish and processed goods reach Chinese consumers,” he said.
Oboth also invited Zheng and other Chinese parliamentary leaders to visit Kampala, saying Uganda could learn from China’s parliamentary model.
He said Zheng accepted the invitation and extended a similar one to Uganda’s parliamentary leadership.
The Speaker said the two countries already cooperate in infrastructure, energy and education, citing the Kampala–Entebbe Expressway, Karuma and Isimba power plants, and scholarships for Ugandan students studying in China.
He added that exchanges between legislators and parliamentary staff could strengthen relations and promote closer ties between the two populations.
Uganda and China established diplomatic relations on October 18, 1962, shortly after Uganda gained independence.
Oboth said the two countries should explore further areas of cooperation to build on the existing partnership.