Ugandan traders have intensified calls for government action on taxation, expensive credit and other challenges they say continue to undermine the growth and survival of businesses across the country.The concerns were presented by the Uganda National Traders Alliance (UNATA) during a meeting with State Minister for Finance (General Duties) Cissy Mulondo at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
Led by UNATA President Godfrey Katongole, the delegation used the courtesy visit to outline challenges affecting traders, including tax assessments, counterfeit goods, trade regulation and the difficulty of accessing affordable financing.Katongole urged government to invest more in taxpayer education and regular consultations with the business community, arguing that traders need clearer information about their tax obligations to improve compliance and minimise conflicts with tax administrators.
He also questioned inconsistencies in tax assessments, calling for a system that is more transparent, predictable and fair to businesses. The traders said uncertainty over tax assessments can make it difficult for them to plan and operate their businesses effectively.Another major concern was the rising cost of commercial borrowing. The traders warned that high lending costs and limited access to affordable credit are leaving many businesses struggling to finance their operations and could push some entrepreneurs towards informal lenders.
The engagement follows an earlier meeting between UNATA and officials from the office of Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury Ramathan Ggoobi, where traders raised concerns over commercial rents, electricity costs, textile taxes, import valuation and their participation in the national budgeting process.Minister Mulondo assured the traders that government would consider their concerns and committed to continued engagement to find practical solutions. UNATA says it will maintain its nationwide advocacy for traders and present their concerns to government as it pushes for a more predictable, affordable and business-friendly trading environment.
