Uganda’s Export Earnings Rise to Record $10.2 Billion, Driven by Coffee and Gold

Kampala, June 2, 2026 - Uganda’s export earnings have surged to a record $10.2 billion during the 2025/26 financial year, up from $6.5 billion recorded over the same period a year earlier, driven largely by strong performances in coffee and gold exports.

The growth, highlighted during President Yoweri Museveni’s State of the Nation Address, reflects what officials describe as sustained government efforts to industrialise the economy, promote value addition, and expand access to international markets.

According to official figures, export revenues between July 2025 and May 2026 rose sharply compared to the corresponding period of July 2024 to May 2025, signalling growing momentum in Uganda’s trade performance and increasing demand for key exports.

Coffee remained one of Uganda’s leading foreign exchange earners, benefiting from strong international prices and sustained demand in major export markets. Officials say increased production and favourable global market conditions have contributed significantly to the sector’s strong performance.

Gold exports also played a major role in boosting earnings, continuing to contribute substantially to national export receipts and strengthening Uganda’s position in regional and international trade.

Authorities noted that the country is experiencing strong growth in export volumes and revenues, supported by efforts to expand production and improve market access for Ugandan goods.

Despite the positive outlook, exporters say challenges remain, particularly in efforts to increase value addition within the coffee sector. Industry players argue that while green coffee beans continue to attract strong international demand, processed and roasted coffee products still face obstacles in accessing premium global markets.

Stakeholders cite barriers including certification requirements, market access limitations, and stiff competition from established coffee-producing countries as major constraints to expanding value-added exports.