To apply for a Fishing Appliance Manufacture or Import Licence in Uganda, one must submit a written application to the Chief Fisheries Officer under the Fish Act Cap. 197 of 2010. The application must include complete details of the appliance intended for manufacture or import, along with the specific area of operation and the methods to be used. All applications must be accompanied by a prescribed fee as directed by the Chief Fisheries Officer.
Applicants can obtain Form 18 from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries at a cost of UGX 10,000. Before the licence is approved, the Chief Fisheries Officer may require proof that the manufacturing or import setup is properly equipped, well-constructed, and meets operational safety standards. The officer may also request additional documentation or clarification to finalize the decision.
Once approved, the Fishing Appliance Licence is issued under the Chief Fisheries Officer’s authority, allowing the applicant to engage in the manufacture or importation of fishing appliances. Each licence is valid for one year and expires on December 31. Renewal must be initiated at least one month before expiry. Applicants operating in shared water bodies with neighboring states only require one licence per year.
Required Documents:
- Valid passport
- Fishing import licence
- Appliance specifications
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Detailed concept plan for the business
Eligibility:
Applicants must be 18 years or older, registered members of a Beach Management Unit (BMU) or a recognized dealers’ association, and possess valid incorporation certificates and articles of association.
Fees:
- Application fee: UGX 10,000
- Licence fee: UGX 1,000,000
- Renewal fee: UGX 1,000,000
Validity:
The Fishing Appliance Licence remains valid for one year from the date of issuance and must be renewed annually before expiration.
Processing Time:
- Maximum processing time: 1 week
Instructions:
- The permit is not transferable.
- It must be displayed in its original form at the business premises.
- License holders must declare their annual production records.
Contact Information:
Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Resources – Head Office
Directorate of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries
Plot 16–18, Lugard Avenue, Entebbe, Uganda
P.O. Box 102, Entebbe
Tel: 041 4320004
Email: [email protected]
The Fishing Appliance Licence helps regulate the production, importation, and sale of fishing inputs, ensuring sustainable fishing practices and compliance with Uganda’s fisheries laws.
