Uganda has witnessed a significant shift in regional trade dynamics, with South Sudan emerging as its top export market, surpassing Kenya.
According to the latest data from the Bank of Uganda, Uganda exported goods worth $55.9 million to South Sudan in January 2025, representing a 54% increase from the previous month. This surge propelled South Sudan to the top spot, pushing Kenya to third place.
Kenya, which had long been Uganda’s largest export market in the region, experienced a slight decline in imports from Uganda. In January, Uganda shipped $35.7 million worth of goods to Kenya, marking a 1% drop from the previous month.
The Democratic Republic of Congo took second place, with Uganda exporting goods worth $45.4 million to the country in January.
Experts view this shift as a significant boost for Uganda’s economy, which has been striving to diversify its export markets. South Sudan has emerged as a major destination for Uganda’s manufactured goods, including cement, sugar, fast-moving consumer goods, and cereals.
South Sudan’s growing demand for Ugandan goods, such as cement, cereal flours, and raw iron bars, is expected to further drive growth in bilateral trade.
“The growth in trade with South Sudan is expected to continue, driven by increasing demand for Ugandan goods,” said Allan Ssenyondwa, the manager of policy and advocacy at the Uganda Manufacturers Association. “These exports are a shot in the arm for Uganda’s economy, and we’re thrilled to see our manufacturers making inroads into the regional market.”
This development underscores the strengthening economic ties between Uganda and South Sudan, fostered through various regional trade agreements and infrastructure development projects.
As Uganda expands its export base, countries such as South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan are expected to play an increasingly vital role.
Uganda’s exports to South Sudan have been growing at an annualized rate of 12.2% from 2018 to 2023.
In related news, Uganda’s exports to Sudan surged by 63% in January, reaching $15.2 million. Coffee, tea, and spices remain among the main products exported to Sudan, which is one of Africa’s leading coffee market destinations for Uganda.
