Uganda is seeing a major boost in its coffee trade with China following the successful Uganda-China Coffee Awareness Tour, which ran from May 12 and concluded with a high-level trade and investment meeting. The event marks a significant step in strengthening ties between the two nations through agriculture—particularly coffee, one of Uganda’s most valuable exports.
The tour provided a platform to highlight Uganda’s strengths in coffee production, including its ideal growing conditions, a young and energetic farming population, and its globally respected Arabica and Robusta beans.
Ambassador Oliver Wonekha, Uganda’s representative in Beijing, described the collaboration as a “strategic opportunity” to grow market access and promote knowledge exchange. She noted that increasing exports to China could create more jobs at home, especially in rural areas, while building stronger trade links with Asia’s largest economy.
On the Chinese side, Ambassador Zhang Lizhong welcomed the initiative, praising Uganda’s quality coffee and voicing support for ongoing partnerships based on sustainability, innovation, and mutual benefit.
According to Permanent Secretary Bagiire Vincent Waiswa, the tour included visits to several coffee-producing regions—Masaka, Mbarara, and Mbale—where Chinese delegates met local farmers and investors explored opportunities in value addition.
One of the most striking outcomes: coffee exports from Uganda to China surged by 190% by March 2025, reflecting a sharp rise in interest from Chinese consumers and importers.
As the event came to a close, Ambassador Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Geoffrey Muheesi thanked stakeholders for their efforts and encouraged all involved to maintain the momentum. He stressed the importance of turning these diplomatic and business connections into long-term growth for Uganda’s coffee industry and broader economy.
