Intertek recently hosted a “Trading with Uganda” networking event at the JCCI House in Johannesburg. Bringing together various business and industry leaders and government representatives, the event was an excellent opportunity to delve into the increasing trade opportunities between Uganda and South Africa.
L to R: Biancka Rudman, Rob Cubitt, Yosheen Moodley, Uganda High Commission Ambassador Paul Amoru, Thabang Marumo
The morning provided a comprehensive overview on what it takes to do business with Uganda – from market opportunities and regulatory requirements to finance, logistics and export compliance.
Yosheen Moodley, GTS Marketing, acknowledged a reality that’s familiar with anyone who has expanded into a new market – things do not always go according to plan. From incorrect documents to changing regulations and trying to understand unfamiliar processes, entering a new market can be challenging hence the need for more events of this nature that bring together the required experts in one room to make trading across borders more accessible.
Ambassador Paul Amora from the Uganda High Commission shared an overview of Uganda – it’s growing population, investment potential and how, now more than ever, it is the “Pearl of Africa”, with a range of opportunities available for businesses to take hold of.
Thabang Maruno, GTS Business Development Manager and Biancka Rudman, GTS Quality Co-Ordinator, took the guests through Uganda’s Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) programme, sharing information and guidelines on how businesses can prepare their products before shipment to avoid delays, penalties and frustrations at their destination.
Pabalelo Mabule from Access Bank, shared useful information on the financial infrastructure that supports trade between South Africa and Uganda. Bonique Groenewald from TradeStream rounded up the speaker line-up focusing on the importance of planning, accurate documentation and efficient supply chains to ensure seamless logistics when trading with Uganda.
The event concluded with a designated question and answer session and attendees took full advantage of the opportunity to ask questions to the panel of experts. After the formal programme, networking continued, allowing guests to forge new connections and discuss potential business opportunities.
