Uganda recorded a dramatic upswing in export income in October, with overseas sales generating roughly $1.5 billion, almost twice the level posted during the same period a year earlier. The spike was largely fueled by exceptional performance in two sectors that continue to anchor the country’s trade balance: coffee and gold.
Coffee exports once again proved central to Uganda’s external revenues. Elevated international prices, combined with rising shipment volumes, pushed earnings from the crop to historic levels. Over the twelve months leading up to October, coffee exports brought in an estimated $2.4 billion, underscoring Uganda’s position as Africa’s leading coffee exporter in 2025. European buyers remained the dominant destination, absorbing the bulk of supplies amid sustained demand.
Gold shipments provided an equally powerful lift. Revenue from gold exports surged more than threefold compared with October last year, reaching close to $965 million. The increase reflected a mix of higher export volumes and favorable global pricing, which amplified returns from the precious metal during the month.
Together, the strong showing from coffee and gold offered a timely cushion for Uganda’s economy. The inflow of foreign currency helped reinforce foreign exchange reserves and lent support to the national currency at a time when broader economic conditions remain under strain.
