Uganda’s export sector has recorded significant growth, with earnings rising from $6.5 billion between July 2024 and May 2025 to $10.2 billion during the same period of the 2025/26 financial year, according to figures highlighted during President Yoweri Museveni’s State of the Nation Address.
The President said the performance reflects ongoing government efforts to industrialize the economy, promote value addition and expand access to international markets.
The latest figures indicate a sharp rise in export earnings, underscoring Uganda’s growing presence in global trade, driven largely by strong performance in coffee and gold exports.
The Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority said the country is experiencing unprecedented growth in export volumes and revenues, driven by increased production and improved global demand.
Officials noted that coffee remains one of Uganda’s leading foreign exchange earners, benefiting from strong international prices and sustained demand in key markets.
Gold exports have also continued to perform strongly, contributing significantly to the country’s export receipts and helping to boost overall trade performance.
Despite the strong growth, exporters say challenges remain, particularly in the value-addition segment of the coffee industry. While green coffee beans continue to enjoy strong demand globally, processed and roasted coffee still face limited access to premium markets.
Industry players say barriers such as certification requirements, market access constraints and competition from established producers continue to hinder expansion of value-added exports.
“We have a huge market for green coffee beans, but value-added coffee still faces barriers in accessing some international markets,” one exporter said.
Experts argue that expanding value addition could significantly increase export revenues, create jobs and strengthen Uganda’s industrialization agenda.
As export earnings rise, stakeholders are calling for stronger trade agreements, improved branding and targeted support for local processors to help Ugandan products compete globally.
With coffee and gold continuing to anchor performance, Uganda’s export sector is expected to maintain growth momentum if structural challenges in value addition are addressed.
