Overview:
This surge is attributed to a bumper crop in the southern and southwestern regions, major coffee-growing areas where harvesting is currently underway
KAMPALA, UGANDA – Uganda’s coffee exports experienced a significant 18.2% increase in June compared to the same period last year, according to a report by the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA).
This surge is attributed to a bumper crop in the southern and southwestern regions, major coffee-growing areas where harvesting is currently underway.
The report reveals that coffee shipments rose to 667,037 60-kilogram bags, up from 563,832 bags in June 2023. This significant increase has resulted in a substantial boost to Uganda’s economy, with coffee being one of the country’s top two exports, alongside gold.
“This was an increase of 18.24% and 79.14% in quantity and value respectively compared to the same month last year. By comparing quantity of coffee exported by type in the same month of last Year (June 2023), Robusta increased by 25.51% and 102.97% in quantity and value respectively, while Arabica exports decreased by 29.51% and 25.90% in quantity and value respectively,” the report reads in part.
The report adds that the monthly coffee exports volume was higher than the previous year, and this was seen in Robusta exports as the newly harvested bigger crop from Greater Masaka and South Western regions reached the market. Arabica exports were however lower than last year due to a smaller harvest in Elgon region.
The UCDA reported that the country earned $1.1 billion from its coffee crop in the 12 months leading up to June, a notable increase from the $846 million earned in the previous year. “Europe remained the main destination for Uganda’s coffees with a 69% imports share, lower than 71% in May 2024,” the report says.
The bumper crop in the southern and southwestern regions is attributed to favorable weather conditions, which have enabled farmers to increase production. The UCDA has been working to support farmers in these regions, providing training and resources to improve yields and quality. “Harvesting of the main crop south of the equator (Masaka and South Western regions) has peaked,” UCDA says.
The increase in coffee exports is expected to have a positive impact on Uganda’s economy, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. The government has been working to promote the coffee industry, recognizing its potential to contribute to the country’s development. UCDA says coffee exports are projected to be 650,000 60-kilo bags in July.