Uganda has over taken Ethiopia to become Africa’s premier coffee exporter,this website has learnt.
According to latest reports Uganda hit $2billion coffe export earning ahed of Ethiopia in 2025.
According to recent data unveiled at the World of Coffee Geneva 2025 event, Uganda exported a staggering 47,606.7 tonnes of coffee in May 2025, a 43.59% increase from the previous year.
The monthly figures are equally impressive: Uganda exported 793,445 60kg bags in May alone, significantly up from 552,569 bags during the same period in 2024, resulting in export earnings of USD 243.9 million. This surge contributes to a cumulative annual revenue exceeding USD 2 billion, solidifying Uganda’s position as a key player in the global coffee market.
With a total of 7.43 million bags exported between June 2024 and May 2025—up from 6.08 million in the previous cycle—Uganda’s coffee industry is on a rapid growth trajectory, with government policies and initiatives playing a crucial role. As evidenced, Italy emerges as the largest buyer, accounting for 39% of Uganda’s coffee exports. In fact, the European market collectively absorbs 67% of these exports, highlighting the strong demand for Ugandan coffee abroad.
This surge in coffee exports is bolstered by enhancements in quality standards and concerted support from Uganda’s Mijnister for Agriculture Frank Tumwebaze says the improvements not only uplift farmers’ incomes but also increase the country’s global competitiveness in specialty coffee markets.
“By focusing on producing high-quality beans, Uganda can cater to the discerning tastes of international consumers, thus elevating its brand reputation,”he said.
He further said that the economic ripple effects of this export growth will lead to job creation in various sectors, including transportation, processing, and marketing.
“As coffee farmers prosper, there is greater potential for investment in rural infrastructure, education, and healthcare, which ultimately enhances the quality of life for many Ugandans,”Yumwebaze stressed.