Uganda's Trade Minister Sanjay Tanna has urged closer cooperation between the government and plastics manufacturers to raise product quality, expand export markets and improve waste management systems. Tanna made the call during a stakeholder engagement organised with the Uganda Manufacturers Association, bringing together industry players to discuss sectoral challenges and growth opportunities.
The minister said local manufacturers must focus on quality, innovation and competitiveness if Ugandan plastic products are to rival imports and establish themselves in regional and international markets. "We must improve the quality and competitiveness of locally manufactured plastic products while creating opportunities for our manufacturers to access regional and international export markets," Tanna said. Industry players and regulators discussed plastic pollution at length, examining ways to strengthen recycling systems and requiring manufacturers to take greater responsibility for waste from their products.
A key issue raised was the need for a clear regulatory definition of single-use plastics to guide manufacturers, investors and regulators on production, use and management of different plastic materials. Industry players said greater clarity in the regulatory framework would help businesses understand their obligations while supporting responsible production and environmental protection. Tanna challenged the private sector to embrace self-regulation and invest in practical measures to improve plastic waste collection and recycling. "We need stronger private-sector participation in recycling initiatives and self-regulation to address plastic waste while ensuring that the plastics industry continues to grow sustainably," he said.
The engagement gave manufacturers a platform to raise concerns and propose solutions to challenges affecting production, market access and long-term sector sustainability. The discussions highlight Uganda's plastics industry facing a dual challenge: expanding manufacturing and creating jobs while preventing increased production from worsening plastic pollution. The Uganda Manufacturers Association continues to engage government and industry players on policies aimed at strengthening local manufacturing, attracting investment and improving the business environment. Stakeholders are expected to use the discussions to build a more competitive plastics industry that supports Uganda's industrialisation agenda, employment creation and export growth.