European Buyers Meet Organic Farmers in Uganda

The coffee growers of Mount Elgon are just one example of Uganda's growing organic sector. In 2005, the value of organic exports was over $6 million. Yet many European importers are nervous about getting involved in business in Africa. Establishing the first connection face to face can improve trust between the parties. ITC provides support to the organic sector in Uganda, and in late April it set up a Buyers' Tour with the National Organic Agricultural Movement of Uganda. Seven European buyers interested in importing organic products from Uganda met exporters, farmers and key stakeholders in the organic sector during a five-day tour around the country. In Uganda there is high demand for organic products. Organics also help smallholders into the export market, as they can share the cost of certification across large groups.