GENEVA, SWITZERLAND — Uganda has officially overtaken Ethiopia to become Africa’s leading coffee exporter, setting a new record with 47,606.7 tonnes of coffee exported in May 2025.
This achievement was highlighted at the ongoing World of Coffee Geneva 2025 event, where Uganda is showcasing its coffee prowess to global industry leaders.
According to the latest figures, Uganda exported 793,445 60kg bags of coffee in May 2025—up from 552,569 bags in May 2024—marking a 43.59% year-on-year increase. The May exports alone earned USD 243.9 million, contributing to a cumulative annual export value of over USD 2 billion.
Over the 12-month period from June 2024 to May 2025, the country exported 7.43 million bags, compared to 6.08 million the previous year, generating USD 2.09 billion in revenue.
Italy remained Uganda’s top export destination, accounting for 39% of total exports. Europe collectively received 67%, followed by Africa (18%) and Asia (13%). Uganda’s volume in May exceeded Ethiopia’s 43,481.02 tonnes, marking a major shift in Africa’s coffee trade dynamics.
A Strategic Leap Fueled by Quality and Policy
Officials credit this growth to improved quality standards and robust support from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF). Interventions have included strict quality control, farmer training, and access to premium inputs—initiatives that have enhanced Uganda’s global coffee reputation for superior taste and consistency.
Speaking at the Geneva expo, Hon. Bwino Fred Kyakulaga, Minister of State for Agriculture, stated:
“Uganda reaffirms its commitment to transforming its export trajectory—from USD 50 billion to USD 500 billion—through strategic value addition. Coffee is a pillar of that vision. Italy remains our biggest buyer, while Switzerland—home to over 50% of global green coffee trade—is a vital strategic partner.”
Uganda’s goal is to produce 20 million 60kg bags by 2030 and generate USD 1.5 billion annually through value-added coffee exports.
Uganda on the World Stage
At the World of Coffee Geneva 2025, Uganda is hosting its own pavilion (booth 2371) and daily cupping sessions at 11:00 am, with a special cupping event scheduled for June 26 at 2:30 pm in Cupping Room 2. The event, held at Palexpo SA from June 26–28, is Europe’s premier specialty coffee trade show, drawing coffee professionals from around the globe.
Ambassador Arthur Kafeero, Uganda’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, emphasized the broader vision:
“Geneva, the heart of green coffee trade, is where traditional commerce meets modern innovation. As Uganda builds bridges with global partners, we aim to unlock untapped potential—not just in trade, but in diplomacy, technology, and sustainable growth.”
Leading the Ugandan exporters’ delegation, Robert Byaruhanga, President of the Uganda Coffee Federation, added:
“Our coffee tells the story of Uganda—rich in heritage, driven by excellence. The World of Coffee is more than an expo; it’s a launchpad for international partnerships that will shape the future of our industry.”
A New Era for Ugandan Coffee
Uganda’s breakthrough reflects a convergence of strategic policy, innovation, and international collaboration. With continued commitment from government, producers, and global partners, Uganda’s coffee sector is poised for a bold new chapter—one that could place it not just at the top in Africa, but among the world’s foremost coffee exporters.
