Uganda has emerged as one of Africa’s rapidly developing economies, with an impressive annual growth rate of 6% for over three decades. As a result, Uganda presents great opportunities for retailers and brands looking to tap into its lucrative market.
However, like other African countries, Uganda has regulations that businesses must comply with, such as the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) program. This guide will give you an overview of the Uganda PVoC Certificate program, ensuring that products sold in Uganda meet specific quality standards.
Snapshot of the Ugandan Market
Uganda has emerged as one of the fastest-growing market-based economies globally, with an estimated GDP of $45.7 billion by 2021/22. The country’s agricultural industry is the primary sector and employs 68% of the population while earning a significant share of Uganda’s export revenue.
Products such as coffee, fish, cotton, tea, and gold are major economic contributors. Additionally, Uganda hosts a few manufacturing industries that process agricultural products and foreign investments, including textile, steel mills, cement factories, car assembly plants, and metal and steel productions.
Recent data reveals that China, India, and Tanzania are the primary import sources for Uganda, with imports worth $1.3 billion, $841 million, and $811 million, respectively.
What Is the Uganda PVoC Program?
The Uganda Bureau of Standards (UNBS) operates the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) program, which oversees the import of certain products to guarantee that they adhere to quality standards and do not compromise the public’s health or safety.
The program encompasses eleven product categories and necessitates that regulated goods possess a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) certification from appointed inspection company in the exporting country, meaning if you´re exporting from Dubai to Uganda, then you´ll have to use one of the Uganda authorised third party inspection companies in UAE to ensure full compliance.
It’s crucial to abide by these regulations since non-compliance can result in shipment delays, penalties, or even shipment rejection.
Understanding the Certification Process for Uganda
It’s important to note the Certification for the CoC can differ depending on the product category and type of export. However, four certification routes are generally available depending on the application. These routes typically require testing and inspection by a contracted PVoC Service Provider for General Goods in the country of origin.
To facilitate this process, UNBS has appointed independent third-party inspection companies like HQTS to issue Certificates of Conformity under the Uganda PVoC program.
Brief Outline of the Certificate Process
Obtaining a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for Uganda requires several steps; keep in mind that the steps may differ depending on the product category and chosen route.
- Check if your product is regulated: First, check if your product is regulated under the PVoC program. You can find the list of regulated products on the UNBS website.
- Contact an authorised PVoC service company: If your product is regulated, contact a PVoC service company authorised by the UNBS to issue CoCs. One of the authorised PVoC service providers is HQTS.
- Provide relevant documents: Prepare and submit relevant documents, such as invoices, packing lists, technical specifications, and test reports, to the certification company. The company will review the documents to ensure compliance with the PVoC requirements.
- Schedule an inspection: The PVoC service company will inspect your goods to verify that they meet the required standards. The inspection can take place at the point of export.
- Receive the CoC: The PVoC service company will issue a CoC if your goods pass the inspection and meet relevant requirements. Present the CoC to the customs authorities in Uganda to clear your goods.
Important: Remember that failure to comply with the PVoC requirements may result in delays, penalties, or the shipment’s return.
Final Words
In summary, Uganda presents promising opportunities for retailers looking to enter the market, but it is crucial to be mindful of the regulations that oversee the export of goods to the country, including the PVoC program. Complying with these regulations is vital to access the Ugandan market and mitigate potential losses resulting from the importation of non-compliant products.
