Uganda's coffee industry is on fire! 🌋 In a remarkable 12-month period, from November 2024 to October 2025, Uganda exported a whopping 8.4 million bags of coffee, valued at an incredible UGX 8.2 trillion (US$ 2.4 billion). That's a massive increase of 46.96% in quantity and a jaw-dropping 77.33% in value compared to the previous year. But here's where it gets controversial...
October 2025: A Month of Coffee Exports
In October alone, Uganda's coffee exports reached new heights. A total of 685,720 bags were shipped out, worth UGX 642.7 billion (US$ 185.56 million). This month saw a mix of Robusta and Arabica beans, with Robusta dominating at 597,925 bags, while Arabica exports stood at 87,795 bags. The average price per kilogram was US$ 4.51, slightly higher than the previous month but lower than the same period last year.
The Coffee Types and Their Prices
Robusta beans, accounting for 87% of total exports, fetched the highest prices, with Washed Robusta leading at US$ 4.88/kg. Arabica exports, on the other hand, experienced a surge, with Bugisu C/PB selling at a premium of US$ 8.33/kg. The volume of Arabica exports increased by an impressive 117% year-on-year.
Where Does Uganda's Coffee Go?
Europe remains Uganda's top market, accounting for 63% of exports. Italy takes the lead with 26.22%, followed by Germany and Algeria. Interestingly, African countries imported 16% of Uganda's coffee, showcasing the growing demand for Ugandan coffee within the continent.
The Top Exporters
Ugacof (U) Ltd takes the crown as the leading exporter, with a 12.44% market share. Kyagalanyi Coffee Ltd and Touton Uganda Ltd follow closely behind. The top 10 exporters collectively accounted for 64% of total exports, indicating a highly competitive coffee market in Uganda.
Production and Development: The Secret Sauce
The surge in exports can be attributed to improved production in central and eastern Uganda, as well as favorable global prices due to supply concerns in major coffee-producing regions like Central America, Brazil, and Vietnam. In October, a significant number of farmers received specialized training on soil fertility, pest control, and post-harvest handling. Additionally, old coffee trees were rehabilitated, and farmers were supplied with fertilizers to boost productivity.
Looking Ahead: Uganda's Coffee Future
Uganda's coffee exports are projected to reach 550,000 60-kilogram bags in November 2025, with the main harvest season in full swing in the Central and Eastern regions. The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) is committed to implementing strategic initiatives to enhance coffee quality, production, and market access, ensuring Uganda's competitiveness in the global coffee market.
And this is the part most people miss... Uganda's coffee industry is not just about the numbers; it's a story of hard work, innovation, and the passion of its farmers. So, what do you think? Is Uganda's coffee industry on the right track? Share your thoughts and let's spark a conversation!
