UGANDA

Bilateral relations Switzerland–Uganda

Bilateral relations between Switzerland and Uganda are modest in scope. Uganda is not one of the priority countries for Swiss development cooperation, and economic and cultural exchange is also limited.

Business language

English.

Dimensions and weights

Metric system.

Currency

National currency Ugandan Shilling (U. Sh.) = 100 Cents (Ct.).

ISO code: UGX

Customs tariff

Harmonised system.

Import control

The Ugandan government has liberalised the import and foreign currency system (particularly for the import of EU goods).

Some imports are via government import agencies. The validity of licences is generally six months. The goods must be shipped while the licence is valid. A pro forma invoice (4 copies) is required to apply for an import licence. Certificates are not necessary. Ensuring that the importer has a valid import licence before shipment is recommended.

There are special provisions for animals, plants, pharmaceuticals, spirits, textiles and cigarettes. Form “E” must be filled in for customs clearance purposes (available from banks). A pro forma invoice must be attached to the application.

Standard VAT rate: 18%

Most foreign currency controls have been lifted and a free internal banking market established. The central bank is no longer responsible for foreign exchange transactions, which can be carried out at the Foreign Exchange Bureaux. Exporters can access the foreign currencies they have generated freely.

Terms of payment and tenders

Irrevocable, confirmed letter of credit. Letters of credit can only be opened by the Uganda Advisory Board of Trade or one of the competent import companies. The customer must deposit the invoice amount with his bank before opening the letter of credit.

Invoices in EUR or GBP.

Export credit insurance

Special provisions apply, ask Euler Hermes SA for details.

Designations of origin

Not required on goods, but the import of goods, the marking or other labelling on which could give a misleading impression of the origin is prohibited unless they are also labelled with the country of origin (“Made in …”).

Marking/labelling

Standard marking for packages is sufficient.

Packaging

Hay and straw should not be used as packaging materials. Seaworthy packaging.

Product samples

Duty free where there is no retail value.

For samples subject to duty brought by travelling salesmen ask for deepened details.

Shipping and accompanying documents

Standard and for:

a) Commercial invoices, 3 copies, in English, signature, standard information including the country of origin; no certification.

b) Certificates of origin only on request.

c) Uncertified bills of lading, order bills of lading permissible if a notify address is given.

d) Postal packages up to 20 kg: 1 foreign dispatch note, 2 customs declarations in English, 3 commercial invoices.