Ugandan Coffee Industry Fights For Improvements Amid Tariff Setbacks – CoffeeTalk

Uganda’s coffee industry faces a significant challenge as a 15% tariff was imposed on its imports by the US government, which has alarmed trade officials who fear losing a foothold in one of the world’s most competitive coffee markets. The move reflects a political shift from the previous US administration under Donald Trump, but Odrek Rwabwogo, Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID), remains optimistic about reversing it. He believes that Uganda’s small but evenly balanced trade with the US is balanced, meaning there is no need to impose any tariff.

Uganda recently succeeded in placing roasted coffee and espresso products directly into US retail outlets, an achievement years in the making. However, the new levy could make Ugandan coffee uncompetitive against established brands like Colombia’s, which benefit from shorter supply chains and stronger global recognition. In response, Uganda is fast-tracking the establishment of a National Foods Authority to oversee chemical use, animal feeds, veterinary medicine, and laboratory standards.

At the core of Uganda’s competitiveness issues lies a domestic gap in farming knowledge. Many farmers juggle multiple ventures without a clear plan or understanding of export standards. To address this, PACEID has launched a radio program to educate farmers on quality control, traceability, and market demands, delivering vital information directly to rural communities.

Rwabwogo believes changing public attitudes toward agriculture is crucial. He argues that farming should be marketed as attractively as consumer brands, and storytelling is key to building agricultural pride. He warns against social media habits that distract from economic activity and encourages platforms to share knowledge on farming, aquaculture, and agro-processing.

Uganda’s coffee industry now walks a tightrope, pushing for tariff relief while strengthening domestic systems to ensure quality and traceability.

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