Overview:
Uganda's coffee export earnings fell 38% in May to $151.7 million as global prices and export volumes dropped, new Agriculture Ministry data shows.
Uganda’s coffee export earnings took a sharp hit in May, as falling global prices and reduced shipment volumes affected the country’s top foreign exchange earner. The dip is a reminder of how exposed Uganda remains to swings in international commodity markets, even as it holds its title as Africa’s leading coffee exporter.
The country earned US$151.7 million from coffee exports in May, down about 38 percent from US$244 million recorded in the same month last year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries.
Export volumes also declined, with Uganda shipping 617,491 bags (60kg each) in May, compared to 793,445 bags in May 2025 — a drop of more than 22 percent. The ministry did not give reasons for the fall in volumes.
Why global prices eased
The drop in earnings wasn’t just about lower volumes — international coffee prices also softened after months of staying high. According to the ministry, prices eased in May on expectations of a bigger harvest in Brazil, the world’s largest coffee producer. This eased fears of tight global supply that had earlier pushed prices to multi-year highs.
Still Uganda’s economic backbone
Despite the setback, coffee remains Uganda’s number one agricultural export and biggest forex earner, sustaining millions of smallholder farming households countrywide. Government programmes promoting better seedlings and improved farming practices have helped boost production in recent years.
Robusta remains the dominant variety grown and exported, though arabica production has also been steadily rising, particularly in the Elgon and Rwenzori regions.
Push for value addition continues
Government continues to push for more local roasting and processing of coffee, rather than exporting raw beans. Officials argue that boosting local value addition will earn the country more money per kilogram and strengthen Uganda’s standing in international coffee markets.
Analysts say future coffee prices will depend on weather patterns in major producers like Brazil and Vietnam, along with shipping costs, exchange rate movements, and global demand trends.
Even with May’s weaker numbers, coffee remains one of Uganda’s most reliable export sectors — but the latest figures are a fresh reminder of how much the country’s earnings can swing with global market conditions.