IOR Africa
IOR Africa

Importing to Uganda

IOR Africa: Your Importer of Record Experts in Uganda

Taxes: Up To 18%

Duties: Up to 25%

Lead Time: 1 Week

Best carrier option: Freight Forwarder

  • Pornographic materials
  • Used motor vehicle tires
  • Used computers and appliances
  • Second-hand goods
  • medicines
  • drones
  • animal products
  • items related to wildlife
Documents Required

Documents Requirements for Uganda Customs:

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Packing List

  • Air WayBill

  • Certificate Of Origin

  • Certificate Of Conformity

Common Challenges When Importing to Uganda

Uganda’s ICT sector is expanding rapidly, fueled by government initiatives in digital infrastructure and literacy. However, businesses importing IT, telecom, and data center equipment must manage strict regulations, evolving taxes, and logistics-related challenges to ensure smooth end-to-end supply chain performance.

1

Regulatory Compliance for Digital Services

Uganda imposes taxes on imported internet-based services and applications, which complicates cross-border trade for software, platforms, and cloud-based solutions.

2

Customs Documentation and Clearance

Precise documentation—including commercial invoice records, correct HS code assignment, and certificates of origin—is essential. Errors or missing paperwork, such as the bill of lading document or the required packing list, can result in significant delays at customs.

3

Permits and Licensing for Tech Equipment

Imports of fiber optic hardware, telecom gear, and sensitive technology require approvals from regulatory authorities. Without proper permits, shipments may be held at entry points.

4

Duties, Taxes, and Cost Control

Beyond VAT and duties, specialized ICT goods may attract additional compliance costs. Incorrect valuation or duty calculation risks penalties and higher landed costs.

How to Overcome These Challenges

By working with IOR Africa, businesses can:

Ensure compliance with Uganda’s digital services tax and ICT import rules

Manage customs documentation, HS code accuracy, and clearance procedures

Provide transparent landed cost management under DDP terms for on-time delivery

Obtain permits and licenses for telecom, fiber optic, and dual-use equipment

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Importing to Uganda | IOR | Move Tech & IT Equipment