External Trade Act (Cap. 88).

The External Trade Act (Chapter 88) establishes the legal framework for regulating Uganda’s external trade through the control of imports and exports. It defines key terms and grants the Minister authority to delegate powers and issue, restrict, or cancel trade licences, including exclusive licences for certain goods. The Act empowers the Minister to prohibit or limit the import or export of specified goods in the interest of public policy or national security. It provides for the exemptions, prescribes forms and procedures, and authorizes the making of regulations for effective enforcement. Enforcement powers are conferred on customs officers, and the Act sets out offences and penalties for non-compliance, including provisions for corporate liability. The legislation aims to ensure structured, lawful external trade while safeguarding national interests. The text consists of 14 Articles.