Abstract
This study evaluates the extent to which Uganda’s export profile aligns with the import needs of its East African Community partner states, with the aim of identifying opportunities for enhanced regional trade. Using sectoral trade data from the International Trade Centre and UN Comtrade, the study applies the Trade Complementarity Index (TCI) and Trade Intensity Index (TII) to analyze Uganda’s trade flows with EAC partners between 2013 and 2023. The results show that Uganda’s trade complementarity with EAC partners remains generally low across several key sectors, including prepared foodstuffs and chemicals, despite significant regional demand and preferential market access. Trade intensity is strongest with traditional partners such as South Sudan and Kenya, while newer markets like Tanzania and Rwanda remain underutilized. The findings highlight persistent structural misalignments between Uganda’s export basket and regional import demand. The study provides sector-specific evidence to inform policies and business strategies aimed at strengthening Uganda’s export performance and deepening regional trade integration within the EAC.
Recommended Citation
Ecel, Aaron; Esemu, Timothy; Mulumba, Matthias S.; and Otim, Jimmy O.
(2025)
"Is Uganda’s Trade complementary with its EAC partners?,"
Tanzanian Economic Review: Vol. 15:
Iss.
2, Article 1.
DOI: 10.56279/ter.v15i2.271
Available at:
https://commons.udsm.ac.tz/ter/vol15/iss2/1