Uganda signs coffee export deal with China’s Cotti Coffee as demand surges
UGANDA – Uganda has entered a major partnership with Cotti Coffee, one of the fastest-growing coffeehouse brands in China, in a move expected to expand the presence of Ugandan coffee across the Chinese market.
The agreement, signed between Uganda’s Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) and Cotti Coffee, represents a milestone for the East African nation as it strengthens its position among the world’s leading coffee exporters.
The signing took place earlier this month during the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai and marks the beginning of what officials describe as a transformative phase for the country’s coffee sector.
Uganda has already witnessed a sharp increase in exports to China, recording a 190% surge this year as Chinese café chains, specialty roasters, and consumers embrace Ugandan beans.
MAAIF officials at the ceremony noted that the collaboration will allow Ugandan farmers to connect more directly with global retail channels. A senior representative said the agreement reinforces Uganda’s role not only as a producer of high-quality coffee but as a supplier whose story and production practices align with growing consumer interest in traceability and ethics.
Executives from Cotti Coffee praised Uganda’s consistent bean quality, diverse coffee varieties, and sustainability credentials, describing the country as a preferred partner for long-term cooperation.
Cotti Coffee, which operates more than 7,500 outlets across 28 countries, is expected to use its supply chain and retail footprint to increase the visibility of Ugandan coffee in China’s rapidly expanding market.
The Memorandum of Understanding, signed with Cotti Supply Chain (Anhui) Ltd, outlines a framework for sustained collaboration across the value chain.
The partnership covers supply assurance for Cotti Coffee’s retail operations, technical cooperation with farmers and processors, and opportunities for value addition within Uganda’s coffee ecosystem.
China’s coffee consumption has grown rapidly, driven largely by urban youth and an accelerating café culture. The market is projected to surpass US$45 billion by 2030, positioning it as a critical destination for coffee-producing countries.
Cotti Coffee’s swift expansion has made the brand emblematic of this growth, strengthening the significance of its partnership with Uganda.
The collaboration comes during a strong export year for Uganda. In September, the country’s coffee shipments rose 59% year-on-year, supported by favorable harvests in central and eastern regions.
According to MAAIF data, Uganda exported 844,949 60-kg bags during the month, up from 532,212 bags a year earlier.
Uganda earned US$2.2 billion from coffee exports in the 12 months to September, reflecting a 57% increase compared to the previous year.
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