South Sudan Becomes Uganda’s Leading Export Market, Overtaking Kenya

In a significant shift in regional trade dynamics, South Sudan has overtaken Kenya as Uganda’s top export destination, signaling a growing economic partnership between the two nations.

According to the latest figures from the Bank of Uganda, Uganda’s exports to South Sudan surged to $55.9 million in January 2025, marking a 54% increase from the previous month. This growth propelled South Sudan to the top spot, relegating Kenya to third place.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) emerged as Uganda’s second-largest export market, with goods worth $45.4 million exported in the same period. Meanwhile, Kenya, which has traditionally been Uganda’s primary trade partner in the region, recorded a slight decline, with exports dropping to $35.7 million—a 1% decrease from the previous month.

Trade analysts highlight this shift as a crucial milestone for Uganda’s economic diversification strategy. South Sudan has become a key market for Uganda’s manufactured goods, including cement, sugar, fast-moving consumer goods, and cereals. The growing demand for Ugandan products such as cement, cereal flours, and raw iron bars is expected to further strengthen bilateral trade relations.

“The expansion of trade with South Sudan is a positive development for Uganda’s economy,” said Allan Ssenyondwa, policy and advocacy manager at the Uganda Manufacturers Association. “This surge in exports reflects the increasing competitiveness of Ugandan products in the regional market.”

The deepening trade ties between Uganda and South Sudan are supported by regional trade agreements and infrastructure development, enhancing cross-border commerce. As Uganda broadens its export base, markets such as South Sudan, the DRC, and Sudan are expected to play an increasingly vital role in the country’s trade landscape.

Uganda’s exports to South Sudan have been growing at an annualized rate of 12.2% since 2018, reinforcing the market’s long-term potential.

In a related development, Uganda’s exports to Sudan saw a sharp rise, increasing by 63% in January 2025 to $15.2 million. Coffee, tea, and spices remained the leading export commodities, with Sudan emerging as a key destination for Ugandan coffee in Africa.