If you are planning to start an industrial project in Uganda, you must apply for an Industrial License from the Industrial Licensing Board under the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives. Below is a detailed guide on how to apply, required documents, fees, and processing time.
In-Person Application Procedure
- Contact the Industrial Licensing Board
- Before beginning, visit the Industrial Licensing Board to confirm the documents and requirements for your application. You can also visit their website.
- Fill Out the Application Form
- Obtain the Industrial License application form from the Board. Complete the form with the required details, including:
- Type and number of ships/vessels to be used
- Particulars of the construction, motive power, and cargo capacity of each ship
- Total crew number and number of passengers each ship is intended to carry
- Areas the ships will operate in
- Obtain the Industrial License application form from the Board. Complete the form with the required details, including:
- Attach Required Documents
- Along with the application form, attach the following documents:
- Certificate of Incorporation or Business Registration Certificate
- Environmental Impact Assessment form (if applicable)
- Map and detailed information showing the area directly or indirectly affected by the project
- Approval/Disapproval of District Environment Committee
- Comments from LC 1 Secretary for Production and Environment Protection
- Passport-sized photograph of the applicant
- Identification documents (ID or Passport)
- Along with the application form, attach the following documents:
- Submit the Completed Application
- Submit the completed form along with the required documents to the Industrial Licensing Board at the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives. The application must be submitted at least 3 weeks before the scheduled Board meeting.
- Board Review and Inspection
- The Board will verify the application and, if necessary, conduct a site inspection to assess the availability of resources like power, fuel, labor, transport, and raw materials.
- Approval and License Issuance
- Once the review is complete and the Board is satisfied, you will receive an SMS notification to collect your Industrial License. The license will outline specific terms and conditions for your industrial project.
Required Documents
- Application form (completed with business plan)
- Certified copy of Certificate of Incorporation or Business Registration
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) form (if required)
- Approval/Disapproval from the District Environment Committee
- Map of the project area
- Comments from LC 1 Secretary for Production and Environment Protection
- Passport-sized photograph of the applicant
- Identification documents (ID or Passport)
- Payment receipt for application fee
Eligibility
- Any legal entity (individual, company, or organization) in Uganda intending to start an industrial project is eligible to apply for the Industrial License. The project must meet the minimum requirements as set by the Industrial Licensing Board.
Fees
- Application Fee: Free of charge.
- License Fee: UGX 500,000 per year.
- Renewal Fee: UGX 500,000 annually.
Processing Time
- The maximum processing time for an Industrial License is 30 days from the date the application is received.
License Validity
- The Industrial License is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Office Locations & Contacts
- Industrial Licensing Board – Head Office
Physical Address: Plot 6/8, Parliamentary Avenue, Kampala, Uganda
Postal Address: P.O. Box 7103, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 312 324 000 | +256 312 324 268
Email: [email protected]
Website: Ministry of Trade, Industry & Cooperatives
Need for the Document
The Industrial License is essential for ensuring that your industrial project meets all required standards and regulations. It helps manage industrial growth, environmental impact, and ensures that only qualified operators run factories and businesses in Uganda.
Other Uses of the Document
In addition to granting permission for your industrial project, the Industrial License helps:
- Establish credibility with stakeholders.
- Ensure compliance with Uganda’s industrial and environmental regulations.
- Access government incentives and support programs for industrial development.
By following these steps and ensuring all documents are in order, you can successfully apply for an Industrial License and begin your industrial project in Uganda.







