The Netherlands-Uganda Trade and Investment Platform (NUTIP), in collaboration with the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU) and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, convened a stakeholder engagement bringing together Dutch investors, government institutions, legal experts and private-sector representatives to discuss challenges affecting investment and business operations in Uganda.
Held at the State House Investors Protection Unit, the engagement provided a valuable platform for constructive dialogue on strengthening investor confidence through effective protection, regulatory clarity and improved dispute resolution mechanisms.
In her remarks, Col. Edith Nakalema of SHIPU emphasised the importance of protecting investors, addressing business concerns and strengthening collaboration between government institutions and the private sector. The engagement provided an opportunity for investors to raise challenges directly with relevant authorities, reinforcing SHIPU’s role in facilitating dialogue and contributing to a more responsive investment environment.
Representing the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Deputy Ambassador reaffirmed the Netherlands’ commitment to strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations with Uganda. The remarks highlighted the importance of a predictable, transparent and supportive business environment in maintaining investor confidence, encouraging responsible investment and enabling businesses to contribute to sustainable economic growth. The Embassy also underscored the value of continued collaboration between NUTIP, government institutions and the private sector in addressing business challenges and unlocking new opportunities for Netherlands–Uganda partnerships.
Discussions focused on key issues affecting the business community, including tax administration and disputes, access to tax incentives, import duties and VAT, regulatory compliance, and the implications of the Protection of Sovereignty Act, 2026. Participants explored practical solutions to improve coordination between government institutions and the private sector.
Representing Bluebell Legal Advocates, Ms. Donah Loyce Katushabe, a partner at the firm, shared insights from the firm’s experience advising local and international investors on Uganda’s legal, tax and regulatory landscape. Her contribution highlighted the importance of legal certainty, transparent regulations and predictable policy implementation in sustaining investor confidence.
On behalf of the NUTIP Board, Mark Dieleman delivered remarks emphasising the importance of sustained collaboration between government and the private sector in addressing the regulatory and operational challenges faced by investors. He reaffirmed NUTIP’s commitment to representing its members’ interests, facilitating constructive engagement with relevant authorities, and advocating for a transparent, predictable and supportive business environment in which Dutch and Ugandan businesses can thrive.
Representatives from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) and other government institutions engaged directly with investors, responding to concerns and exploring practical solutions to improve Uganda’s investment climate.
The engagement reaffirmed the importance of open dialogue and coordinated action in addressing investor concerns, strengthening regulatory confidence and creating an enabling environment for sustainable business growth.
As the Netherlands continues to play an important role in Uganda’s investment landscape across sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, manufacturing and financial services, sustained public-private dialogue remains essential to unlocking opportunities for trade, investment and long-term economic growth.
NUTIP extends its appreciation to SHIPU, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Bluebell Legal Advocates, the participating government institutions and all private-sector stakeholders for their contributions to this important engagement.
Together, we remain committed to promoting a predictable, transparent and investor-friendly business environment that supports sustainable investment and strengthens Netherlands–Uganda economic relations.
