Shenyang, China – March 28, 2025
Uganda and China have taken a significant step toward deepening their economic and strategic ties following the successful hosting of the 1st Uganda–China (Liaoning) Mining and Petroleum Investment Promotion Conference in Shenyang. The high-profile event brought together senior officials, industry leaders, and investors to explore opportunities in Uganda’s mineral and energy sectors.
Organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in China, in collaboration with the Uganda Consulate in Guangzhou and the Liaoning Provincial Department of Commerce, the conference showcased Uganda’s readiness to attract investment in mining and petroleum.
Uganda Opens Doors to Investors
Eng. Irene Pauline Bateebe, Permanent Secretary of Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, underscored the nation’s commitment to creating a favorable investment climate.
“Uganda is rich in minerals and petroleum resources, and we are building the right legal frameworks, infrastructure, and incentives to ensure value addition, sustainability, and returns on investment,” she stated.
The event followed the recent elevation of Uganda-China relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024. Ambassador Oliver Wonekha and Consul General Judyth Nsababera emphasized Uganda’s vision for industrial partnerships founded on mutual benefit and trust.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Trade Growth
One of the highlights of the conference was the celebration of growing sub-national cooperation, notably the sister-city agreement between Jinja and Shenyang, aimed at fostering collaboration in trade, education, and infrastructure.
In a recorded address, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni invited Chinese investors to seize the vast opportunities Uganda offers, assuring them of strong government support.
“Uganda is stable, open, and eager to work with long-term partners. We welcome you to be part of our transformation journey,” he said.
The conference featured key presentations from the Uganda Investment Authority, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, and the Chamber of Mines and Petroleum, detailing incentives, upcoming projects, and ongoing reforms to ease bureaucratic challenges for investors.
Success Stories and Future Prospects
Prominent Chinese enterprises, including CNOOC, highlighted their contributions to Uganda’s oil and gas sector, where they have created thousands of jobs and introduced environmentally sustainable practices. The Liaoshen Industrial Park, already operational in Kapeeka, shared its success story and encouraged further collaborations.
Deputy Secretary General of the People’s Government of Liaoning Province, Mr. Cui Changzheng, praised the rapid growth in bilateral trade, which surged by over 78% between 2023 and 2024. He reaffirmed Liaoning’s commitment to expanding partnerships in infrastructure, agriculture, and manufacturing with Uganda.
Looking Ahead
As the conference concluded, the Uganda Embassy called for the formation of a business delegation to visit Uganda and explore investment opportunities firsthand.
“Uganda is not just open for business. We are building an economy that works for the future. Join us,” urged Ambassador Nsababera.
The Ugandan government expressed its gratitude to all partners and participants, reaffirming its commitment to fostering economic partnerships that drive prosperity, innovation, and long-term collaboration. With Uganda’s economy diversifying and industrializing, the nation is poised to become a key player in global investment and trade.
