Uganda Starts Review of MSME and Standards Policies, Introduces New Governance Guide

Uganda has begun a countrywide review of two major policy frameworks that influence how small businesses operate and how product standards are managed. The process was officially launched during a national consultation meeting held in Kampala, where government officials, development partners, and private-sector players gathered to share their views.

Alongside this review, authorities also unveiled a new Good Governance Guide meant to strengthen the institutions responsible for setting and enforcing standards in the country.

Strengthening MSMEs for a Bigger Economy

Government leaders explained that revising the MSME Policy of 2015 and the National Standards and Quality Policy of 2012 is overdue, especially as Uganda works toward its long-term goal of becoming a much larger and more competitive economy by 2040.

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises account for most of Uganda’s business activity, contributing a large share of national output and employing the majority of the country’s workforce. However, many of these enterprises continue to face challenges such as limited innovation, high production costs, slow certification processes, and difficulties meeting quality requirements. Officials say updating the policies will help address these obstacles and unlock more growth.

A New Guide to Improve Accountability

The newly launched Good Governance Guide is aimed at improving the performance of institutions responsible for quality assurance—such as agencies involved in standards, testing, and product certification. The guide promotes transparency, accountability, and consistent decision-making, which the government believes will improve the credibility of Uganda’s quality-control systems.

Stronger quality infrastructure is seen as essential for consumer protection and for helping Ugandan products compete on regional and international markets.

Concerns From the Private Sector

Members of the private sector raised multiple concerns that they hope the policy review will address. These include the high cost of borrowing, unreliable electricity, expensive internet services, and long delays in acquiring product certification. They also noted that many manufacturers are operating far below their full capacity, largely because of operational inefficiencies and standards-related bottlenecks.

Development partners who attended the launch expressed their support for the review process and emphasized the need to promote innovation, digital solutions, and better compliance among enterprises.

What Happens Next

The review will continue through a series of national and technical consultations. Stakeholders from government, industry, and civil society are expected to contribute proposals that will shape the updated policies. The goal is to create modern frameworks that encourage enterprise growth, support industrial development, and prepare Uganda to take advantage of regional trade opportunities, including those under the African Continental Free Trade Area.