Uganda’s coffee industry has hit a new high.
In May 2025, the country exported a record 47,606.7 tonnes of coffee—surpassing Ethiopia and securing its position as Africa’s leading coffee exporter.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) released the figures in a statement from Kampala.
“Uganda’s coffee industry has reached a historic milestone,” the ministry said. “In May 2025, Uganda emerged as Africa’s leading coffee exporter, delivering a record 47,606.7 tons and surpassing Ethiopia’s previous achievements.”
Uganda’s monthly coffee exports hit 793,445 60-kg bags in May, a sharp increase from 552,569 in May 2024. That’s a jump of 43.59%.
The export value for that month alone was $243.9 million, pushing the total value for the 12-month period between June 2024 and May 2025 to just over $2 billion.
During that same period, Uganda exported 7.43 million bags—up from 6.08 million the year before.
Italy remained Uganda’s top coffee buyer, accounting for 39% of the shipments. Europe overall took in 67%. African and Asian markets followed with 18% and 13% respectively.
The ministry noted, “In May 2025, Uganda’s volume exceeded Ethiopia’s 43,481.02 tons, signifying a decisive shift in the continent’s coffee trade dynamics.”
Much of the growth is being attributed to better quality control, farmer training, and access to improved inputs—initiatives spearheaded by MAAIF.
These reforms are part of Uganda’s broader “Coffee Roadmap,” which aims to hit 20 million bags by 2030 and generate $1.5 billion annually in revenue.
This week, Uganda is taking its success story to Geneva, Switzerland, where it’s participating in the World of Coffee expo from June 26–28 at Palexpo SA.
The event brings together global coffee professionals for competitions, workshops, and industry showcases.
Uganda will host a national pavilion (booth 2371), with daily cupping sessions at 11:00 a.m. and a featured Coffee Cupping event on June 26 at 2:30 p.m.
Uganda is also joining panel discussions and engaging with buyers and investors.
Hon. Bwino Fred Kyakulaga, Minister of State for Agriculture, emphasized the strategic importance of the event.
“Uganda reaffirms its ambitious commitment to transform its export trajectory—from US$50 billion to US$500 billion—through strategic value addition,” he said.
“Coffee will be one of the primary drivers to achieve this export target. As highlighted in the May coffee report, Italy remains our primary consumer, while Switzerland stands as the epicenter of global coffee trade.”
Ambassador Arthur Kafeero, Uganda’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, also reflected on the country’s presence in Switzerland.
“This week, as we unite in Switzerland, I am profoundly grateful for the collaborative spirit that has brought our team together,” he said.
“Only 164 Swiss citizens—amidst a vibrant community of 8 million—travel to Uganda annually. It reminds us of the untapped potential and the many bridges yet to be built.”
He added that Geneva—where over 50% of green coffee trade is transacted—is not just a venue but a symbol of what Uganda hopes to achieve.
“In Geneva, we witness a fusion of centuries-old trade traditions and modern innovation,” he said. “This city not only optimizes the economic value of coffee on a global scale but also exemplifies our capacity to bridge communities.”
Robert Byaruhanga, president of the Uganda Coffee Federation, is leading the exporters’ delegation.
“At this expo, our exporters embody the spirit of Ugandan coffee—each bean a testament to our rich heritage and our resolute pursuit of excellence,” he said.
“The World of Coffee conference and expo is more than an event; it is a celebration of meaningful partnerships.”
Byaruhanga said Uganda is using the platform to strengthen its global brand through storytelling, strategic marketing, and direct engagement.
The mix of strong export performance, quality improvements, and international exposure marks a defining moment for Uganda’s coffee sector.
As the country continues its push toward higher export targets, stakeholders say the momentum is real—and just beginning.
