Uganda has overtaken Ethiopia to become Africa’s leading coffee exporter, following record-breaking export figures in May 2025.

The country shipped 47,606.7 tonnes of coffee last month, equivalent to 793,445 60kg bags, representing a 43.6% increase compared to May 2024. The exports were valued at nearly $244 million, pushing Uganda’s coffee earnings past $2 billion over the past 12 months.

From June 2024 to May 2025, Uganda exported a total of 7.43 million bags of coffee, up from 6.08 million in the previous period. Italy was the leading importer, accounting for 39% of total exports. Europe received 67% of Uganda’s coffee, followed by African countries at 18% and Asia at 13%.

The recent surge in exports is attributed to government-led quality improvements, farmer training and better access to agricultural inputs. The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) has played a key role in positioning Uganda’s coffee as a premium product in global markets. These initiatives support the country’s long-term Coffee Roadmap, which aims to produce 20 million bags annually and earn $1.5 billion per year by 2030.

Uganda participated in the World of Coffee trade show in Geneva, Switzerland, which took place from 26 to 28 June at Palexpo SA. The event featured workshops, international competitions and networking opportunities for coffee professionals. Uganda’s presence included a national pavilion, daily tasting sessions and participation in expert panels.

Speaking about Uganda’s participation in the EXPO, the Minister of State for Agriculture in MAAIF, Bwino Fred Kyakulaga, said: “Uganda reaffirms its ambitious commitment to transform its export trajectory – from $50 billion to $500 billion – through strategic value addition. Coffee will be one of the primary drivers to achieve this export target."

"As highlighted in the May coffee report, Italy remains our primary consumer, while Switzerland stands as the epicenter of global coffee trade. Our delegation’s objectives are fully aligned with our national goals, and we are resolute in optimizing every engagement to ensure Uganda reaps enduring benefits on the world stage.”