Uganda’s coffee industry has experienced a remarkable growth in the Turkish market, with exports soaring by a staggering 2,200% from 2019 to 2024. Starting at 2000 bags (120 tons) in 2019, coffee exports to Turkey surged to 44,000 bags (2,640 tons) in 2024. This significant achievement is credited to the strategic shift by the Uganda Mission in Turkey, focusing on investment, trade, and tourism, with a specific emphasis on coffee, which Turkey has a high demand for.
Julius Mwijutsya, the Counselor in charge of Economic and Commercial Diplomacy at the Uganda Embassy in Ankara, stated, “Turkey presents a great opportunity for Ugandan coffee exporters, given its large population and growing economy.” He highlighted the success of efforts to establish a strong presence in the Turkish market, resulting in the impressive growth in coffee exports. Ugandan coffee, known for its quality characteristics, especially Robusta coffees Screen 18 and Screen 15, has gained popularity in Turkey, with the Embassy actively promoting it at the Coffex International Coffee Exhibition in Istanbul.
Furthermore, awareness about Ugandan coffee has increased in Turkey, with Mwijutsya highlighting the country’s vibrant tourism industry and growing coffee consumption, offering significant economic benefits for Uganda. The estimated revenue gains from coffee exports to Turkey could reach USD 1.5 billion by 2025, solidifying Uganda’s position in the global coffee market.
Mwijutsya expressed confidence in the continuation of this positive trend under his successor, emphasizing the strategic plan for economic and commercial diplomacy, aimed at driving growth and prosperity for both nations. With the support of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ugandan coffee is poised to make a strong impact on the Turkish market and contribute to economic growth.
This content was distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Republic of Uganda – Ministry of Foreign Affairs.