The 2026 Uganda International Trade Fair will, for the first time, feature “Black Deals,” as organisers seek to boost commercial transactions and strengthen business linkages during the 10-day exhibition.
The development was announced on Thursday during the launch of the 32nd edition of the Uganda International Trade Fair, scheduled to run from October 2 to 11, 2026, under the theme: “Formalising Trade to Secure Uganda’s Economic Future.”
Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) Board Chairman Aga Sekalala Jr. said more than 1,000 exhibitors from over 30 countries are expected to participate, with at least 150,000 visitors projected to attend the exhibition.
“We project that onsite sales and commercial transactions will exceed Shs10 billion, before counting the longer-term value of distributorships, supply contracts, investment leads, technology partnerships and export relationships initiated at the fair,” Sekalala said.
He said the 2026 trade fair will bring together players from manufacturing, agriculture, technology, finance, education, health, and trade services, creating opportunities for businesses to showcase products and establish new commercial relationships.
Sekalala also emphasised the importance of business formalisation, saying it is critical for enterprises seeking to access finance, comply with standards, and expand into wider markets.
“Formalisation is not only about registration or taxation; it is about making enterprises visible, bankable, standards-compliant and ready to grow,” he said. “The trade fair will help businesses move from informal transactions to structured partnerships and wider markets.”
Barbara Mulwana of Mulwana Group of Companies said the trade fair remains an important platform for turning regional business ambitions into commercial relationships.
“The trade fair, therefore, does not simply show what Uganda has already produced. It helps create the demand, connections and confidence that will determine what Uganda produces next,” she said.
Reflecting on the origins of the trade fair and Uganda’s manufacturing sector, Mulwana said her late father, James Mulwana, believed strongly in Uganda’s economic success and prosperity.
“When he helped to revive the Uganda Manufacturers Association, his vision was to help create an environment in which Ugandan manufacturers could succeed. We must be proud that, decades later, that vision continues,” she said.
The introduction of “Black Deals” represents a new feature aimed at driving commercial transactions during the fair. While specific details of the initiative were not fully disclosed, it is expected to offer exclusive promotions and incentives to exhibitors and visitors, encouraging business activity and partnerships.
Organisers said the 2026 trade fair will provide a platform for product launches, business networking, business-to-business matchmaking, and connections between local enterprises, international partners, and investors.
The event is expected to provide businesses with opportunities to access new markets, secure partnerships, and showcase Ugandan products and services to both local and international buyers. With a strong focus on formalisation, the fair aims to bridge the gap between informal and formal trade, unlocking new opportunities for businesses across the country.
