Uganda earned a record-breaking $1.88 billion from coffee exports in the first 10 months of the 2024/2025 coffee year — a significant jump from the $1.03 billion made during the same period the previous year.
This growth was fueled by higher production, better quality, and strong global demand, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.
From October 2024 to July 2025, Uganda exported 6.55 million bags of coffee, compared to 4.98 million bags during the same time in the 2023/2024 cycle.
The increase shows not just more output, but also Uganda’s rising importance in the global coffee trade.
In July 2025 alone, Uganda exported 997,105 bags of coffee — earning $250.6 million in that month. This represents a 21% increase in volume and a 19% increase in value compared to July 2024.
Robusta, Uganda’s main coffee variety, saw an 18% rise in export volume.
Arabica, a higher-value variety, recorded a 68% jump in quantity and a massive 140% surge in value.
“Robusta increased by 18.40% in volume and 11.40% in value. Arabica exports grew by 68.18% in volume and 140.87% in value,” the Ministry’s report highlighted.
Even though exports went up, the average export price dropped slightly:
In July 2025, the average price per kilogram of coffee was $4.19, down from $4.76 in June 2025 and $4.27 in July 2024.
Experts believe the price drop may be due to seasonal factors and increased supply in global markets.
Italy remained the largest buyer of Ugandan coffee, importing 31% of the total shipments in July. Other key destinations included:
Sudan
Germany
Algeria
Belgium
Meanwhile, African markets are becoming more important. In July, 24% of Uganda’s coffee exports went to African countries, up from 16% in June.
Looking at the full 12 months up to July 2025:
Uganda exported 7.93 million bags worth $2.25 billion, compared to 6.88 million bags worth $1.41 billion the year before.
This shows not only consistent improvement but also that Uganda is well on its way to becoming a top global coffee exporter.
The Ministry of Agriculture forecasts around 700,000 bags to be exported in August, as the main harvest season comes to an end.
Interestingly, some farmers and traders are still holding back their coffee, waiting for global prices to rise before selling.
This may influence short-term supply but could benefit exporters if prices improve.
Uganda’s coffee industry is thriving, with strong harvests, increased exports, and growing international demand. While prices have dipped slightly, the long-term outlook remains positive.
This performance reflects the hard work of Ugandan farmers and exporters — and shows the potential for even greater growth if investment in quality, processing, and marketing continues.
