Uganda overtakes Ethiopia to become Africa’s biggest Coffee exporter with over $2 billion earnings

Kampala, Uganda: In a transformative milestone for the nation’s economy, Uganda has officially dethroned Ethiopia to become Africa’s premier coffee exporter, showcasing the remarkable resilience and growth potential of its agricultural sector. According to recent data unveiled at the World of Coffee Geneva 2025 event, Uganda exported a staggering 47,606.7 tonnes of coffee in May 2025, a 43.59% increase from the previous year.

The monthly figures are equally impressive: Uganda exported 793,445 60kg bags in May alone, significantly up from 552,569 bags during the same period in 2024, resulting in export earnings of USD 243.9 million. This surge contributes to a cumulative annual revenue exceeding USD 2 billion, solidifying Uganda’s position as a key player in the global coffee market.

With a total of 7.43 million bags exported between June 2024 and May 2025—up from 6.08 million in the previous cycle—Uganda’s coffee industry is on a rapid growth trajectory, with government policies and initiatives playing a crucial role. As evidenced, Italy emerges as the largest buyer, accounting for 39% of Uganda’s coffee exports. In fact, the European market collectively absorbs 67% of these exports, highlighting the strong demand for Ugandan coffee abroad.

The benefits of this export boom are manifold. For Uganda, coffee is not just an agricultural product; it is a cornerstone of economic development. Generating over USD 2 billion annually, the coffee sector forms a critical part of the national GDP, providing income for millions of farmers and livelihoods across the country.

This surge in coffee exports is bolstered by enhancements in quality standards and concerted support from Uganda’s Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries. These improvements not only uplift farmers’ incomes but also increase the country’s global competitiveness in specialty coffee markets. By focusing on producing high-quality beans, Uganda can cater to the discerning tastes of international consumers, thus elevating its brand reputation.

Furthermore, the economic ripple effects of this export growth are significant, leading to job creation in various sectors, including transportation, processing, and marketing. As coffee farmers prosper, there is greater potential for investment in rural infrastructure, education, and healthcare, which ultimately enhances the quality of life for many Ugandans.

With Uganda now outpacing Ethiopia, one of the oldest coffee producers, the achievements serve to inspire further innovation and commitment within the agricultural sector. The nation’s coffee successes offer a template for other commodities to thrive, demonstrating the power of strategic planning and industry support.

As Uganda continues to build on this momentum, the coffee export sector stands as a testament to the potential inherent in African agriculture and the opportunity it presents for sustainable economic development. The lessons learned through this achievement pave the way for greater investments, elevated international partnerships, and a more robust export economy.

In this bright chapter for Uganda’s coffee industry, the journey forward promises not only economic gains but also a strengthened presence on the world stage, placing Uganda firmly at the helm of Africa’s coffee trade.