Rice traders under the Uganda Rice Traders Association have publicly expressed their frustration over what they describe as unfair treatment in the rice import and trading business.
The traders held a press conference today to voice their concerns, accusing the Ministry of Trade of denying licences to established rice dealers while allegedly allowing companies they describe as non-rice traders to access the necessary approvals.
According to the traders, the situation is disrupting their businesses and creating what they consider an uneven playing field in the sector.
The traders called for urgent government intervention, saying prolonged delays, denials and uncertainty surrounding licences and import approvals are making it increasingly difficult for them to operate.
They want authorities to review the licensing process and ensure that established rice traders are treated fairly.
Their concerns come amid existing regulatory requirements governing rice imports into Uganda.
Rice is classified as a restricted import product under Uganda’s External Trade Act and related regulations. Importers generally require the relevant import licence or permit from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, alongside other requirements such as a valid trading licence, tax clearance and company documentation.
Trading licences, depending on the location and type of business, are generally handled by local authorities.
@brayzmedia 🚨 Rice Traders Cry Out for Government Intervention! 🇺🇬 Rice traders under the Uganda Rice Traders Association are calling for government intervention, claiming that the Ministry of Trade has denied them trading licences while allegedly issuing licences to non-rice traders. They say the move is disrupting their businesses and calling for urgent action. #Uganda #RiceTraders #UgandaRiceTradersAssociation #MinistryOfTrade #BusinessNews ♬ original sound – Brayz Media Tv
During the press conference, the traders alleged that some companies, which they claim are not traditionally involved in rice trading, have received preferential treatment in accessing import permits, tax-related exemptions or clearance processes.
They further claimed that established rice traders have faced delays, rejected applications, recalled permits and increased compliance requirements.
The allegations have raised concerns among traders who say the situation is threatening businesses and livelihoods within the rice trade.
However, the claims of preferential treatment remain allegations and would require verification and responses from the relevant authorities.
The association is now calling on the government to urgently address what they describe as inconsistencies in the licensing and importation system.
They argue that transparent and predictable regulations would allow legitimate traders to compete fairly while ensuring that government continues to regulate the importation of rice in accordance with the law.
@brayzmedia 🚨 Rice Traders Cry Out for Government Intervention! 🇺🇬 Rice traders under the Uganda Rice Traders Association are calling for government intervention, claiming that the Ministry of Trade has denied them trading licences while allegedly issuing licences to non-rice traders. They say the move is disrupting their businesses and calling for urgent action. #Uganda #RiceTraders #UgandaRiceTradersAssociation #MinistryOfTrade #BusinessNews ♬ original sound – Brayz Media Tv
As the traders await government intervention, they say they will continue pushing for answers over the licensing decisions affecting their businesses.
