Uganda Surpasses Ethiopia to Become Africa’s Top Coffee Exporter

Uganda has overtaken Ethiopia to become Africa’s leading coffee exporter, recording unprecedented export volumes and earnings in May 2025.

The country shipped 47,606.7 tonnes of coffee last month, surpassing Ethiopia’s 43,481 tonnes and marking a 43.6% year-on-year growth.

According to the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), the country exported 793,445 60kg bags in May, up from 552,569 bags in the same month last year.

The monthly earnings amounted to USD 243.9 million, pushing the annual export revenue from June 2024 to May 2025 to USD 2.09 billion from 7.43 million bags.

Italy remained the top importer, accounting for 39% of Uganda’s coffee exports, while Europe as a whole absorbed 67%.

African countries took 18%, and Asian markets received 13%.

Officials credit the growth to improved quality standards, intensified farmer training, and support from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF).

“Through stringent quality controls and access to premium inputs, Ugandan coffee now enjoys strong global demand for its distinct flavor and quality,” said MAAIF State Minister Fred Kyakulaga.

The surge comes ahead of Uganda’s participation in the World of Coffee Expo in Geneva, Switzerland, from June 26–28, where the country will host its own pavilion and daily cupping sessions to promote its coffee on the international stage.

Kyakulaga said Uganda’s coffee industry is central to the country’s broader export strategy, aiming to grow total exports from USD 50 billion to USD 500 billion.

“Coffee is one of the key pillars in our national transformation,” he said.

Uganda’s delegation to the Geneva expo includes government officials, private sector players, and members of the Uganda Coffee Federation.

The Federation’s president, Robert Byaruhanga, emphasised that the global event is not just a trade show but “a celebration of partnerships and innovation that will shape the future of Uganda’s coffee industry.”