Uganda’s total exports surged to $12.7 billion (Shs46 trillion) in the year ending November 2025, marking a 33% increase from the previous year’s $8.5 billion (Shs30 trillion), according to the latest Bank of Uganda (BoU) report.
Gold and Coffee Lead the Export Surge
The major drivers of this export growth were the gold and coffee sectors. Gold exports, in particular, stood out, reaching $5.8 billion (Shs21.1 trillion), a remarkable 44% increase from the previous year when gold exports were valued at $3.3 billion (Shs11.9 trillion).
The success of the gold sector can be attributed to favorable policies and the establishment of refineries in Uganda. The country has seen a steady rise in gold exports over the past three years, importing raw gold from neighboring countries such as Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This strategic move has positioned Uganda as a key player in the regional gold market.
In October 2025, Uganda exported 8,298 kilogrammes of gold, more than double the 3,765 kilogrammes shipped in September. This increase reflects more gold moving through Uganda’s formal export channels, signaling a real rise in export quantities rather than just a price effect.
Coffee Exports See Remarkable Growth
The coffee sector, another major export earner, also showed impressive results. Despite the controversy surrounding the Coffee Bill, which was later assented into law during the year, Uganda earned $2.4 billion (Shs8.7 trillion) from coffee exports in the period under review. This represented a 40% increase from the previous year’s $1.5 billion (Shs5.3 trillion) earnings.
In an interview with Business Daily, Dr. Adam Mugume, BoU’s Director of Research, stated that Uganda’s economy has shown resilience amidst global uncertainty and volatility. He attributed this performance to prudent monetary policy that balances growth, inflation, exchange rate stability, and financial system stability.
Resilient Economy Supported by Key Sectors
The robust performance of Uganda’s economy has been driven by strong export proceeds from key sectors such as coffee, gold, cocoa, sugar, fruits, and vegetables. The BoU report also noted significant inflows from foreign direct investment in the oil sector, workers’ remittances, and tourism receipts.
Key Export Destinations and Trade Partners
Uganda’s major export destinations include the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which imports most of the country’s gold exports. Italy takes nearly 70% of Uganda’s coffee exports, while Kenya, DRC, and South Sudan are key markets for Uganda’s agricultural commodities, including maize and beans, as well as manufactured products like sugar, processed milk, and steel.
The growth in trade with these countries has contributed significantly to Uganda’s overall economic performance.
Strategic Location Boosts Trade Opportunities
Industrial experts view the export growth as a positive development for Uganda’s economy, which has been diversifying in recent years. Uganda’s strategic location in East Africa makes it an attractive trade hub. Mr. John Bosco Lwere, an export promotions executive at the Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority, shared that with the right policies and investments, Uganda is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the global market.
Gold and Coffee: Pillars of Uganda’s Economic Growth
The BoU report underscores the importance of the gold and coffee sectors in driving Uganda’s economic growth. Experts believe that Uganda must continue supporting these key sectors to sustain its growth. “As the country navigates the complexities of the global economy, it is essential that policymakers and stakeholders work together to support these key sectors. By doing so, Uganda can build on its recent successes and achieve sustainable economic development,” they added.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite challenges such as the Coffee Bill saga, Uganda’s exporters have shown they can navigate complex markets and capitalize on emerging opportunities. As Uganda looks ahead, experts emphasize the need for continued investment in infrastructure, agriculture, and industry.
By addressing these challenges, Uganda can unlock its full potential and achieve sustainable economic growth. With the right approach, Uganda has the opportunity to further enhance its role in the global economy and reach even greater heights in the years to come.
Uganda’s export boom presents a story of growth, opportunity, and resilience, paving the way for further economic expansion.
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