KAMPALA, Uganda— South Sudan has emerged as Uganda’s top export market, surpassing Kenya in a significant shift in regional trade patterns.
According to the latest data from the Bank of Uganda, Uganda exported $55.9 million worth of goods to South Sudan in January 2025, representing a 54% increase from the previous month. This surge propelled South Sudan to the top spot, pushing Kenya to third place.
Kenya, which had long been Uganda’s largest export market in the region, saw a slight decline in exports. Uganda shipped $35.7 million worth of goods to Kenya in January, a 1% drop from the previous month.
The Democratic Republic of Congo took second place, with Uganda exporting $45.4 million worth of goods to the country in January.
Experts say this shift is a significant boon for Uganda’s economy, which has been seeking to diversify its export markets. South Sudan has emerged as a major market for Uganda’s manufactured goods, including cement, sugar, fast-moving consumer goods, and cereals.
South Sudan’s growing demand for Ugandan goods, including cement, cereal flours, and raw iron bars, is expected to continue driving growth in bilateral trade.
“The growth in trade with South Sudan is expected to continue, driven by growing demand for Ugandan goods,” said Allan Ssenyondwa, the manager of policy and advocacy at the Uganda Manufacturers Association. “These exports are a shot in the arm for Uganda’s economy, and we’re thrilled to see our manufacturers making inroads into the regional market.”
The development is also a testament to the growing economic ties between Uganda and South Sudan, which have been fostered through various regional trade agreements and infrastructure development projects.
As Uganda expands its export base, countries such as South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan are likely to play an increasingly important role.
Uganda’s exports to South Sudan have been increasing at an annualized rate of 12.2% from 2018 to 2023.
In related news, Uganda’s exports to Sudan increased by 63% in January, with goods worth $15.2 million exported to the country. Coffee, tea, and spices are among the main products exported to Sudan, which is a leading coffee market destination in Africa for Uganda.
