Odrek Rwabwogo, the Chairperson of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID), says Uganda is working to regain and expand its access to the United States market after the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

AGOA is a U.S. trade programme that allows eligible African countries to export certain goods to the United States without paying taxes on them. This helps African businesses compete better in the U.S. market and supports job creation and economic growth at home. Uganda was suspended from AGOA in January 2024, which affected exporters and reduced opportunities for Ugandan products in the U.S.

Following the renewal of AGOA by the United States, and ongoing efforts to update and modernize the programme, Rwabwogo said Uganda now has a fresh chance to show progress in trade reforms, good economic management, and improved governance. He described the renewal as more than just a regional achievement, saying it opens a door for Uganda to re-engage with the U.S., rebuild trust, and create new opportunities for businesses and citizens.

Rwabwogo noted that the AGOA extension reopens an important trade window for African countries and gives Uganda a chance to restore confidence among exporters and investors. He said PACEID has continued to strengthen Uganda’s business links in the U.S., even during the period of suspension. He pointed to growing connections in cities such as Detroit, Chicago, and Atlanta, where Ugandan businesses have been engaging with American buyers and partners.

He added that these links helped local companies stay connected to the U.S. market during a time of uncertainty and kept interest in Ugandan products alive.

PACEID, under Rwabwogo’s leadership, has been actively pushing for Uganda’s return to AGOA since the suspension in January 2024. He said several engagements have been held with U.S. officials and institutions, including meetings with members of the U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means. These discussions became more active after the AGOA renewal bill was passed in December 2025.

While welcoming the progress made so far, Rwabwogo said Uganda must continue pressing for full reinstatement under AGOA. He also called for support for other African countries that were suspended, saying that fair and inclusive access to the U.S. market benefits the whole region.

He explained that Uganda’s return to AGOA would expand export opportunities for Ugandan products, attract foreign investment into export-focused sectors such as agriculture, agro-processing, textiles, and manufacturing, and create more jobs for Ugandans. He added that renewed access would support inclusive economic growth and strengthen ongoing reforms aimed at deeper regional and global economic integration.