Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority (UFZEPA) is stepping up efforts to ensure investors operating in the country’s Free Zones meet tax and customs obligations while receiving the necessary support to expand their businesses.
The Authority says its responsibility to investors goes beyond issuing licences and facilitating the establishment of businesses to providing continuous support in addressing operational challenges, securing regulatory approvals and facilitating business expansion.
UFZEPA Manager of Investor Support in the Department of Economic Zones, Operations and Compliance, Stella Ayikoru, says the Authority works closely with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to help investors navigate customs procedures and obtain the necessary approvals from government agencies.
“Real support proves itself at the aftercare stage. This is where we support investors in acquiring secondary licences, permits and approvals from other government ministries, departments and agencies. UFZEPA also works closely with URA on customs set-up and on-site clearances,” Ayikoru said.
She added that UFZEPA also serves as a central point of contact for investors whenever operational bottlenecks arise, while monitoring their performance and compliance, facilitating licence renewals and supporting business expansion.
Ayikoru was speaking during a capacity-building engagement organised by UFZEPA in collaboration with URA on November 6, 2026, at URA offices in Nakawa, Kampala.
The engagement brought together Free Zone developers, operators and their clearing agents to strengthen their understanding of the tax and regulatory framework governing their operations.
Discussions focused on Customs procedures, Domestic Taxes and other tax-related requirements, including Income Tax, Withholding Tax (WHT), Value Added Tax (VAT), Excise Duty and Stamp Duty.
Participants were encouraged to maintain proper documentation, follow established customs and tax procedures and ensure accountability in their operations.
They were also reminded to ensure that goods destined for international markets meet the required quality and international standards.
The collaboration between UFZEPA and URA is intended to improve compliance and operational efficiency among Free Zone businesses while strengthening Uganda’s competitiveness as a destination for export-oriented investment.
Through continued investor support and capacity-building initiatives, UFZEPA says it remains committed to guiding businesses through the different stages of investment, from establishment and operations to expansion.
