A Fruits and Vegetables Export Licence in Uganda is issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) to individuals or companies intending to export fruits and vegetables from Uganda to international markets. The process ensures that all exporters meet the required quality, safety, and traceability standards before engaging in export activities.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Register with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB):
Begin by registering your business entity to obtain a legal operating status. - Join an Exporters Association:
Register with a recognized fruits and vegetables exporters’ association for orientation and pre-checks. The association will forward your application to MAAIF, the Ministry of Trade, and the Uganda Export Promotion Board (UEPB) for export readiness training. - Undergo Export Readiness Testing:
At UEPB, you will be assessed in key areas such as market knowledge, quality control, export communication, and sanitary/phytosanitary (SPS) standards. Successful applicants receive a “No Objection” certificate from UEPB. - Submit Application for Inspection:
With the “No Objection” certificate, apply to the Commissioner for Crop Inspection and Certification at MAAIF for an audit of your packhouse and production or out-grower scheme. Attach evidence of compliance with stages 1–3. - Provide Proof of Facilities and Farming Capacity:
Exporters must show proof of ownership, rental, or shared use of a hygienic packhouse and demonstrate access to either their own farm or contracted out-growers. - Attach Additional Requirements:
Include your TIN number (URA), REX number (for EU exporters), and proof of safe and hygienic transport for produce. - Audit and Approval:
Once your documentation is reviewed, the Commissioner grants approval for a full audit. The Ministry’s inspection team will evaluate your operations and issue a report within 24 hours after completion. - Final Registration and Licensing:
Upon a successful audit and recommendation from the Commissioner, MAAIF issues your Fruits and Vegetables Export Licence and an official exporter registration number. This number must be stamped on every export cargo box for traceability.
Required Documents
- TIN from Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)
- REX number (for EU exporters)
- Proof of hygienic transportation capacity
- Proof of ownership or rental of a packhouse
- NO OBJECTION report from Uganda Export Promotion Board
- Export readiness test report from UEPB
- Audit report from packhouse and production scheme
- Phytosanitary certificates
Eligibility
All individuals, companies, and agencies engaged in fruit and vegetable exportation are eligible to apply for this licence.
Fees
Fees vary depending on the scale of export and category, as advised by the Ministry during the application process.
Validity
The Fruits and Vegetables Export Licence is valid for one year and expires on December 31 each year.
Processing Time
The entire process takes between three to six months, depending on audit completion and compliance readiness.
Instructions
All traders exporting fresh or dried produce must obtain a phytosanitary certificate for each consignment. This document certifies that the produce is pest-free and meets the standards of the importing country.
Required Information
Applicants must provide:
- Full name, nationality, and contact details
- Company name and export location
- UEPB recommendation and identification documents
- Type of produce and proposed farming methods
- Declaration form and annual return copy
Need for the Document
The Fruits and Vegetables Export Licence authorizes businesses to export agricultural produce legally. It ensures compliance with international market standards, traceability requirements, and pest control measures, helping Uganda maintain a strong reputation in global trade.
Contact Information
Uganda Export Promotions Board – Head Office
2nd Floor, UEDCL Tower, Plot 37 Nakasero Road
P.O. Box 5045, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 (0)414 230250
Email: [email protected]
Ministry of Trade, Industry & Cooperatives – Head Office
Plot 6/8, Parliamentary Avenue, Kampala, Uganda
P.O. Box 7103, Kampala
Tel: +256 312 324 000 / +256 312 324 268
Email: [email protected]
External Links
