Business 22 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Overtakes Ethiopia as Africa's Top Coffee Exporter, Eyes New Markets
Uganda has emerged as Africa's leading coffee exporter, shipping 8.6 million bags worth $2.3 billion in a single year. The country is now leveraging this success to explore new international markets and attract investment. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-eyes-new-markets-after-coffee-export-boom-5505846
Uganda has officially claimed the top spot as Africa’s leading coffee exporter, surpassing Ethiopia in recent trade figures. Between June 2025 and May 2026, the nation exported a remarkable 8.6 million bags of coffee, generating approximately $2.3 billion (Shs8.3 trillion).
Dr. Gerald Kyalo, the commissioner for Coffee Development at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), highlighted that this achievement signifies increased earnings for the country and sustained livelihoods for local farmers. While Ethiopia consumes a significant portion of its coffee production domestically, Uganda has seen its exports grow substantially over the past five years.
Industry data indicates Uganda’s growing global influence in coffee production. The country was among the leading producers in 2023 and is projected to further boost its output in the coming years.
Buoyed by this export success, Ugandan authorities are actively seeking to expand their presence in international markets. The Uganda Embassy in Brussels, in collaboration with MAAIF, is preparing to showcase the nation’s coffee at the prestigious World of Coffee 2026 exhibition in Belgium.
This major European trade event is expected to provide a direct avenue for Ugandan coffee producers to engage with global buyers, roasters, and investors. The exhibition will feature specialty coffees from key growing regions across Uganda, aiming to strengthen trade ties, attract investment, and solidify the country’s reputation for high-quality coffee on the world stage.