Uganda’s coffee industry is poised for significant growth with the launch of its third Connect Hub in Serbia. The hub, located in Zajecar, will facilitate trade logistics, promote value-added Ugandan products, and strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Uganda and the Balkans.
Gen. Wilson Mbadi, the Minister of State for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, who graced the event together with Odrek Rwabwogo, emphasised the importance of this milestone, stating, “This is a key part of the journey from coffee cultivation in Uganda to the cup here in Serbia.”
He noted that Connect Hub is a crucial part of Uganda’s export journey, designed to enable the country to expand its coffee and product exports across Europe.
The new hub is expected to boost Uganda’s coffee market in several ways:
Increased exports: With the Connect Hub, Uganda’s coffee exports to Europe are likely to increase, tapping into the region’s growing demand for high-quality coffee.
Promoting value-added products: The hub will promote value-added Ugandan products, enabling the country to export more than just raw coffee beans.
Strengthening Trade Ties: The Connect Hub will also strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Uganda and the Balkans, creating new opportunities for trade and investment.
Uganda’s Coffee Industry Performance
Uganda’s coffee industry has shown robust performance in recent years, with the country earning a record US$1.4 billion in revenue from coffee exports in the 2023/24 coffee year.
While presenting the 2025/2026 budget on Thursday, June 12, 2025, Hon. Matia Kasaija, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, said, “For the first time in history, Uganda’s coffee export earnings exceeded USD 1 billion, and are on track to double to USD 2 billion in just one year.” The industry’s growth is attributed to factors such as:
Increased global demand
Growing demand for high-quality coffee globally has created opportunities for Uganda to increase its exports.
Climate change
Climate-related challenges in major coffee-producing countries like Brazil and Vietnam have led to supply deficits, making Uganda’s coffee more competitive.
Investment in quality improvement
The Uganda Coffee Development Authority’s (UCDA) efforts to improve coffee quality and promote sustainable practices have contributed to the industry’s growth.
The launch of Uganda’s third Connect Hub in Serbia marks a significant milestone in the country’s coffee export journey. With its strategic location and focus on promoting value-added products, the hub is poised to boost Uganda’s coffee market and increase its exports to Europe.
As the global coffee market continues to evolve, Uganda’s coffee industry is well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities and drive economic growth.