Overview:
Bank of Uganda data shows a 33 percent surge in total export earnings, led by strong demand in the DRC and high global sales of gold and coffee.
The Democratic Republic of Congo maintained its position as Uganda’s top export destination in Africa, even as the country faced persistent security challenges in its eastern regions.
According to recent Bank of Uganda data, the DRC led the continent in the 12 months ending November 2025. Uganda exported goods valued at $625 million to the DRC during that period, surpassing earnings from Kenya, South Sudan and Rwanda.
Kenya, previously Uganda’s primary export market, followed in second place with $592.9 million in trade value. South Sudan and Rwanda followed with $492 million and $328.4 million, respectively.
Trade Composition and Growth
Ugandan exports to the DRC are primarily driven by manufactured consumer goods. Key exports include:
- Sugar
- Iron sheets
- Beverages
- Foodstuffs such as maize, beans and fish
Total export performance for the country saw a significant jump, rising 33 percent to $12.7 billion from $8.5 billion the previous year. Bank of Uganda officials attributed this growth largely to gold and coffee exports.
Economic Resilience
Bank of Uganda Director for Research Adam Mugume noted that the economy continues to show resilience despite global uncertainty. He credited the performance to stable exchange rates and prudent monetary policies.
Beyond the African continent, the United Arab Emirates remains a critical partner, absorbing nearly 70 percent of Uganda’s coffee exports. Other major global markets include Italy and various destinations for gold, cocoa and vegetables.
John Bosco Lwere, an export promotion executive at the Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority, said the country’s strategic location in East Africa offers significant opportunities for revenue growth if supported by the right infrastructure and investment policies.