Ugandan manufacturers are pushing for cheaper financing, arguing that the high cost of borrowing from commercial banks — with interest rates ranging between 18 and 24 percent — is limiting production, expansion and job creation. They are calling for more affordable credit facilities with rates of about 12 percent to help industries grow and remain competitive. Speaking at the Annual Uganda Manufacturers Association Financial Symposium, the State Minister for Trade David Bahati said reducing interest rates would not only support manufacturers to expand but also stimulate job creation, raise incomes and increase money circulation in the economy as businesses and workers save, invest and access more financial services.