KAMPALA, UGANDA – The countdown has begun for the nation’s premier business showcase, the 31st Uganda International Trade Fair (UGITF). Hosted by the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), the expo is scheduled to run for an extended 11-day period from Thursday, October 2nd to Sunday, October 12th, 2025, at the UMA Showgrounds in Lugogo.

This year’s event is anchored by the timely and strategic theme, “Sustainable Industrialization for Inclusive Growth, Employment & Wealth Creation.” For Ugandan manufacturers, this theme is more than just a slogan; it’s a direct reflection of the evolving global market and a roadmap to future-proofing their businesses.

Why “Sustainable Growth” Matters Now

The focus on sustainability is a strategic response to a changing world. Global investors, financiers, and consumers are increasingly demanding that businesses demonstrate a commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The 31st UGITF will provide a crucial platform for manufacturers to showcase their advancements in this area and align with these global trends.

This includes demonstrating:

• Resource Efficiency: Adopting technologies and processes that reduce energy and water consumption, minimize waste, and lower the carbon footprint.
• Value Addition: A special focus will be placed on strengthening the link between agriculture and industry. Agro-processors will have a prime opportunity to showcase value-added products and build stronger relationships with local suppliers.
• Inclusive Business Models: Highlighting how manufacturing operations are creating quality jobs, supporting local communities, and fostering an equitable and resilient industrial sector.

A Premier Platform for Manufacturer Growth

The UGITF remains the single most important event for manufacturers to achieve several key business objectives in one place. Building on the success of the previous fair, which attracted over 1,200 exhibitors and more than 200,000 visitors, the 2025 edition is expected to be even larger, providing an unparalleled opportunity to:

• Boost Sales and Market Presence: Engage directly with tens of thousands of potential customers, generate immediate sales, launch new products, and gather invaluable market feedback.
• Forge Strategic Partnerships: Connect with local and international businesses for B2B networking, finding new distributors, securing reliable suppliers, and exploring joint venture opportunities.
• Attract Investment: Showcase business potential to a diverse audience of investors, financiers, and government agencies looking to support viable and sustainable enterprises.
• Benchmark and Innovate: Observe industry trends, assess competitors, and discover new technologies and innovations that can enhance production and efficiency.

With early planning already underway, UMA is positioning the 31st UGITF as a strategic imperative for the entire manufacturing community. Manufacturers are encouraged to start preparing now, aligning their showcase with the theme of “Sustainable Growth” to maximize their visibility and connect with the forward-thinking partners and customers who will define the future of Ugandan industry.