Medical devices

According to Export.gov, the leading sub-sectorsin medical equipment in Uganda include record management equipment and systems; ultrasound; electrocardiographs; Dopplers for obstetrics; pulseoximeters; ventilators; cardiac echo machines; treadmill stress machines; and lab equipment (including equipment needed for microbiology, hematology, chemistry, and histopathology).

With Uganda’s lack of medical infrastructure and large influx of donor support for health programs, demand for medical equipment continues to rise. The regulatory landscape for medical devices and diagnostics in Uganda has been found to be weak and inefficient and there is a need for better standards to suit the local market.

Pharmaceuticals

In 2017, pharmaceutical expenditure in Uganda reached a value of US$414 million. According to Pharmexcil.com, 76% of this value is met by private sector (out of Pocket). In 2018, estimates are that market may reach US$434 million and by 2022, the market will be valued at US$519 million, experiencing a five-year CAGR of 4.7%.

In 2017, per capita drug expenditure was US$10 -which is extremely low by international standards. Additionally, in 2017, pharmaceutical spending is estimated to have accounted for 21.9% of total healthcare expenditure. Nevertheless, in comparison with many other African markets, Uganda offers greater commercial promise and a more stable overall business environment.