Parliament Backs UNBS Bid to Keep Non-Tax Revenue for Better Standards Enforcement

Members of Parliament on the Committee of Tourism, Trade and Industry have called on the government to let the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) use its Non-Tax Revenue collections. They warn that inadequate funding is weakening the agency’s ability to enforce product standards and protect consumers.

Workers’ MP Hon. Abdulhu Byakatonda highlighted a prior motion to allow UNBS to retain these funds, similar to the National Drugs Authority (NDA). He noted NDA’s effectiveness due to its financial autonomy, even before government allocations arrive.

Hon. Richard Gafabusa (NRM, Bwamba County) pointed out the risks of substandard goods flooding the market due to UNBS constraints. He compared UNBS operations to police work, which needs constant responsiveness, and criticized delays in certification as misleading to the public.

These issues surfaced during the review of the Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Industry’s 2026/2027 Ministerial Policy Statement, chaired by Hon. Boniface Okot on April 2, 2026. MPs also accused the Uganda Revenue Authority of taxing uncertified products and slammed the ministry and UNBS for ignoring public complaints about unsafe items.

UNBS Executive Director James Kasigwa urged lawmakers to back the revenue retention push, citing similar provisions in the UNBS Act as in the NDA Act. He stressed that funding shortages limit market responses, despite strong technical capabilities like advanced labs recognized regionally.

Minister of State for Industry Hon. David Bahati revealed the ministry is seeking Attorney General advice, as the Public Finance Management Act mandates remitting Non-Tax Revenue to the Consolidated Fund, potentially requiring legal changes.

Source: Parliament of Uganda