The growing trade volume between Uganda and the United Kingdom is a significant development for Uganda Airlines and the country’s economic growth.
With direct flights between the two nations via Uganda Airlines, cargo transport will become more efficient, enabling fresh Ugandan products like fish, coffee, fruits, and vegetables to reach the UK market faster.
This was revealed yesterday by H.E Lisa Chesney MBE, the British High Commissioner to Uganda, during the UK-UG Business Forum held at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel.
Speaking at the Forum, H.E Chesney said that, “With direct flights, we can streamline cargo transport, making it easier and faster for fresh Ugandan products such as fish, coffee, fruits and vegetables to reach the UK market in the shortest time possible.”
About boosting the tourism potential in the country, H.E Chesney said, “We can also connect those on the bustling streets of London to the impenetrable forests of Bwindi as we foster stronger ties between our people, and our cultures.”
She also observed that as for trade, the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme provides tariff-free access for over 95% of all goods exported from Uganda to the UK, which is a boost for economic growth.
“This is one of the most generous trade preference schemes in the world, and the direct flight is the perfect opportunity for all of you here today to take advantage of this,” H.E Chesney noted.
Benefits for Uganda Airlines
The benefits Uganda Airlines’ direct flights to the United Kingdom offer the country several advantages, including;
Increased Cargo Transport
Direct flights will streamline cargo transport, making it easier to export Ugandan products to the UK.
Expanded Network
Uganda Airlines’ expansion into new routes, including potential future routes to Europe, will increase its network and revenue.
Competitive Advantage
By offering direct flights, Uganda Airlines will gain a competitive edge in the aviation industry, competing with regional heavyweights like Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways.
Boost to Uganda’s Economic Growth
By boosting trade between Uganda and the UK through direct flights between the two countries, Uganda Airlines hopes to drive the economy through;
Tariff-Free Access
The UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme provides tariff-free access for over 95% of goods exported from Uganda, making Ugandan products more competitive in the UK market.
Increased Exports
With direct flights and favourable trade agreements, Ugandan exports to the UK are likely to increase, contributing to the country’s economic growth.
Job Creation
A growing aviation industry and increased trade can lead to job creation, both directly and indirectly, contributing to Uganda’s economic development.
Uganda’s Industrialisation Efforts
The government has prioritised industrialisation, with a focus on value-added products and export-led growth. The country’s industrial sector contributes 27.6% to GDP, with manufacturing accounting for 15.4%. With the right infrastructure and trade agreements in place, Uganda’s industrialisation efforts can drive economic growth and development.
The growing trade volume between Uganda and the UK presents a significant opportunity for Uganda Airlines and the country’s economic growth.
With direct flights, favourable trade agreements, and a growing aviation industry, Uganda is poised to increase its exports, create jobs, and drive economic development.
As Uganda Airlines continues to expand its network, it will play a critical role in facilitating trade and commerce between Uganda and the UK.