Tokyo, Japan – Uganda has boldly stepped onto the global stage at Asia’s premier coffee event, the SCAJ World Specialty Coffee Conference & Exhibition in Tokyo, showcasing its premium Arabica and Robusta beans amid record-breaking exports valued at $2.24 billion for the 2024/25 period.Held at Tokyo Big Sight and attracting over 75,000 visitors, the event features Uganda’s pavilion under the theme “UGANDA – THE PEARL OF AFRICA.” Organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) in partnership with the Ugandan Embassy in Japan, the exhibit highlights the nation’s rich coffee heritage, sustainable farming practices, and distinctive flavor profiles. Attendees are treated to guided cupping sessions, live brewing demos, and seminars on climate-smart agriculture, bridging Japanese buyers with Ugandan farmers.This high-profile appearance aligns with Uganda’s coffee sector hitting new heights. According to MAAIF data, the country exported 7.93 million 60-kg bags in the 12 months ending August 2025, marking a 17.9% volume increase and a staggering 58.7% value jump year-on-year. Coffee now stands as Uganda’s top export, supporting rural economies and elevating its international brand.“Japan demands quality, traceability, sustainability, and authenticity – qualities Uganda excels in, backed by volumes for enduring partnerships,” stated Tophace Kaahwa, Uganda’s Ambassador to Japan, during the opening.August 2025 alone saw 855,441 bags exported, worth $202.75 million, with Arabica values soaring 64% compared to last year. Premium varieties like Mt. Elgon A+ fetched $9.42 per kilogram, positioning Uganda at the forefront of Africa’s coffee exports. While Europe absorbs 62% of shipments, Asia – spearheaded by Japan – is emerging as a key growth area, holding 13% market share.Inside the pavilion, immersive displays transport visitors through Uganda’s coffee journey, from the volcanic soils of Mt. Elgon to the Rwenzori Mountains. Interactive tastings spotlight sweet, winey Arabicas and robust, chocolatey Robustas. An 80-minute seminar series, led by MAAIF and the embassy, features farmer stories, emphasizing how coffee drives rural transformation while adhering to global standards.“The narrative of Uganda’s coffee is one of evolution,” said Gordon Katwirenabo, MAAIF’s Assistant Commissioner for Quality Assurance and Value Addition. “From smallholders to elite exporters, we’re demonstrating that quality, sustainability, and scale coexist.”Driving this surge are investments in agronomy, training, and traceability, earning trust across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The pavilion doubles as a business hub, where exporters like Mountain Harvest, Bugisu Cooperative Union, Just Know Your Coffee Cup, Gorilla Highlands Coffee, and Crystal Coffee forge deals with Japanese importers.As global coffee demand rises 2.2% annually amid supply constraints from Brazil and Colombia, Uganda – the Robusta birthplace and Africa’s largest exporter – is primed for leadership. Farm gate prices in August reflected gains: Robusta Kiboko at UGX 6,500/kg, FAQ at UGX 13,500/kg, and Arabica parchment at UGX 14,500/kg.Japan’s imports of Ugandan green coffee have skyrocketed, from $4.3 million (1.42 million kg) in 2021 to $12 million (3.83 million kg) in 2023, with year-on-year leaps of up to 102% in volume.MAAIF views SCAJ 2025 as a cornerstone of its strategy to boost exports, farmer incomes, and Uganda’s global repute. “Our coffee is world-class, sustainable, and market-ready,” Katwirenabo affirmed. “Record highs are just the start.”Watchdog Uganda will monitor how these Tokyo connections translate into tangible benefits for local farmers and the economy.The post Uganda’s Coffee Shines at Tokyo Expo, Exports Surge to $2.2Billion appeared first on Watchdog Uganda.