Uganda’s revenue from coffee exports fell significantly in May due to declining global prices and reduced export quantities, impacting the nation’s primary agricultural product. This drop underscores the susceptibility of Africa’s leading coffee exporter to fluctuations in international commodity markets.
Uganda earned US$151.7 million from coffee exports in May, a decrease of approximately38 percent from the US$244 millionrecorded in the same month of the previous year, as per an Agriculture Ministry report published onFriday.
Export volumes also dropped considerably, as the country sent out617,491 60-kilogram bags compared with 793,445bags in May 2025, a decrease of over22 percent.
The government did not provide an explanation for the drop in export quantities.
Global prices weaken
The decline in profits was caused not only by decreased deliveries but also by falling global coffee prices following a period of high levels.
As per the ministry, prices decreased in May with increasing expectations of a bigger harvest inBrazil, the world’s largest coffee producer, alleviating worries about limited global supplies that had previously caused prices to reach multi-year peaks.
Coffee remains economic lifeline
Coffee continues to be Uganda’s primary agricultural export and main source of foreign currency, providing support to millions of small-scale farmers throughout the nation.
Uganda stands as Africa’s leading coffee exporter, having increased its output in recent years via government initiatives that focus on better seeds and enhanced agricultural efficiency.
The nation primarily exports robusta coffee, although arabica output has also increased consistently.
Enhancing value continues to be a key focus
The authorities keep promoting local roasting and processing in order to boost revenue from exports and decrease dependence on exporting raw beans.
Authorities state that increasing local value creation will enhance Uganda’s standing in global markets and lead to greater economic benefits.
Market outlook remains uncertain
Experts note that worldwide coffee prices are expected to remain influenced by climatic factors in key growing nations like Brazil and Vietnam, along with transportation expenses, exchange rate fluctuations, and international demand.
Although May saw a weaker performance, Uganda’s coffee industry continues to be one of the nation’s most significant export sectors, yet the most recent data highlights how susceptible export revenues are to changes in global commodity markets.






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