Uganda to focus on reducing textile imports of the country

Yoweri Musevni, President of Uganda, stated that their country spends $888 million (Shs 2.991 trillion) on annual textile imports. He added that development of the domestic textile industry is needed in order to reduce the textile imports of the country.

Hence, the President urged the government institutions in the country to buy Ugandan-made products to support the domestic industry and stated that they are of good quality as well as price competitive.

Museveni added that the local manufacturers are required to make plans for improving the quality of the products and contribute to the development of the textile industry.

Industry experts say that the President’s directive on buying local-produced products will give a competitive advantage to local factories.

Richard Mubiru, Director Corporate Affairs of Southern Range Nyanza (NYTIL), expressed gratitude that government is showing commitment to revive the textile industry of Uganda.

He said that NYTIL has the capacity to produce a range of uniforms, garments and other fabrics that can support local garments manufacturing market. However, he further urged government to reduce the cost of capital through Uganda Development Capitalization.