Uganda has officially overtaken Ethiopia as Africa’s leading coffee exporter, marking a historic moment for the country’s agricultural economy. According to a statement released Tuesday by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Uganda exported 793,445 bags (each weighing 60 kg) of coffee in May 2025, generating $243 million in export revenue.
“Uganda's coffee industry has reached a historic milestone. In May 2025, Uganda emerged as Africa's leading coffee exporter, delivering a record 47,606.7 tons and surpassing Ethiopia's 43,481.02 tons,” the Ministry stated.
Officials attributed this remarkable achievement to a combination of government-backed initiatives and improved quality control across the coffee value chain. The Ministry highlighted:
Strict quality control mechanisms to ensure export-grade beans
Farmer training programs to improve cultivation and post-harvest practices
Access to high-quality inputs, including disease-resistant coffee varieties
These efforts have significantly enhanced Uganda’s global coffee reputation, with its beans now favored for their distinctive flavor profiles and consistency.
The Ministry noted that with the main harvest season now underway in several key coffee-growing regions—including Bugisu, Mt. Elgon, and parts of Western Uganda—coffee production and export volumes are expected to increase further in the coming months.
Uganda’s coffee exports are now reaching a diverse international market, including: 🇮🇹 Italy 🇩🇪 Germany 🇪🇸 Spain 🇮🇳 India 🇸🇩 Sudan 🇧🇪 Belgium 🇨🇳 China 🇩🇿 Algeria 🇺🇸 United States 🇲🇦 Morocco
This wide geographical spread not only secures stable revenues but also underscores Uganda's growing influence in global coffee trade.
Uganda's rise to the top of Africa’s coffee export chart reflects strategic government investment, farmer empowerment, and a commitment to excellence in production and trade. Surpassing Ethiopia—a long-standing leader in the sector—Uganda is redefining its role on the global coffee map and signaling a new era of agricultural competitiveness and sustainability.
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