The Permanent Secretary Amb. Patrick Mugoya Tuesday morning addressed the ongoing 3rd Trade and Business Facilitation Symposium (TBFS) 2019 in Mombasa, Kenya.

Amb. Mugoya highlighted on the need to improve the strategic alliance in trading between Uganda and Kenya to boost the trade volume between the two countries which currently stands at approximately USD 1.2 Billion.

On commending the efforts of the Consulate of the Republic of Uganda – Mombasa led by Amb. Tayebwa Katureebe, Amb. Mugoya reiterated the importance of such platforms as a means of getting the Private Sector to share experiences, identify opportunities and challenges and agree on appropriate measures to promote trade and investment.

Amb. Mugoya emphasised the duty of government officials in addressing all Non-Trade Barriers/Non-Tariff Measures and implementing decisions that have already been agreed to in a timely manner.

The symposium aims to:- Strengthen cooperation and enhance coordination and partnerships among stakeholders in the trade value chain in addressing common challenges; Support the business community in making use of the Electronic Single Window for customs clearance of goods; Provide increased understanding on key trends and issues in regard to combating counterfeit products; Enlighten participants on key issues of tax policy, administration and the rationale to pay taxes; Provide an opportunity for participants to appreciate the Kenya import market; Establish a vibrant permanent platform for information sharing and amongst partners and stakeholders; Change mindsets and increase production for export.

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