By Joshua Niyonshima
URA has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the manufacturing industry through policy advocacy and tax incentives. Speaking at the 3rd Annual Manufacturers Dialogue 2024, the Ag. Commissioner Customs Department Hajji Asadu Kisitu Kigozi pledged to represent the industry’s interests at national and international levels.
Kisitu emphasized the importance of the private sector allowing them to present a list of items they feel should be removed from the 5th schedule for local sourcing. He clarified that exemptions were initially granted due to unavailability in the country and high capital consumption.
The URA also pledged support for manufacturers importing raw materials and exporting goods outside the country. Kisitu highlighted the need for comprehensive facilities at inland ports, such as cold rooms for the fish processing industry.
The Supervisor Tariff, Elinathan Masiko on the other hand presented key products that are VAT-free, including cold rooms, maize milling machinery, and coffee roasters. He also highlighted investment opportunities in the mining, mineral value addition, and the tourism industry.
Aga Sekalala, the Vice Chairperson of the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), applauded the government’s forward-looking tax amendments, which aim to foster a competitive business environment. He requested consideration for removing exemptions on goods and supplies that the EAC has developed capacity to produce.
Sekalala recognized URA’s tax education efforts, including sector-specific tax hubs hosted at UMA over the last eight weeks. He acknowledged URA’s support, stating, that “they are no longer strangers to us and the relationship has improved our businesses.”
The dialogue underscored the collaborative efforts between URA and the manufacturing industry to promote economic growth and development.
