Coffee is more than just a much-loved beverage; it’s a journey that begins in the fertile soils of Uganda and ends in the mugs of people worldwide. Renowned for its high-quality coffee, Uganda is uniquely positioned in the global coffee market. Known for its robust flavours and exceptional quality, Ugandan coffee has gained a loyal following among enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide. 

At Fluna, we are proud to be part of this journey, connecting Ugandan farmers with international buyers and navigating the complexities of trade so that Ugandan coffee can shine on the world stage. But how exactly does our coffee make its way from Uganda’s highlands to global markets? Let’s delve into this journey—from farm to cup—and how Fluna helps make it all possible.

Uganda’s Coffee Heritage and Fluna’s Commitment to Quality

For Uganda, coffee is not just an industry; it’s woven into the nation’s cultural and economic fabric. Coffee farming has been a livelihood for generations; employing about 5 million people in Uganda and around 1.7 million households growing the crop, it’s a cornerstone of Uganda’s economy. Fluna’s mission is to empower these farmers by offering a reliable pathway to global markets, giving them fair access and visibility.

In Uganda, both Arabica and Robusta varieties are grown. Arabica, cultivated in the high-altitude regions of Mount Elgon and the Rwenzori Mountains, has a delicate, fruity profile. Meanwhile, Robusta, grown in the central regions, boasts bold, earthy flavours and a higher caffeine content. Fluna’s export process preserves the unique profiles of these beans, ensuring that buyers experience the true essence of Ugandan coffee with every shipment.

‍Fluna’s Role in the Export Process

The journey from Uganda’s farms to international markets requires expertise in logistics, quality control, and compliance—areas where Fluna excels. Our team oversees each step to ensure that only the finest coffee makes it to buyers worldwide. 

A significant aspect of our work involves navigating complex regulatory frameworks to meet international standards. One of the biggest challenges today is the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which aims to prevent products linked to deforestation from entering the EU market. This legislation has brought sustainability to the forefront of trade discussions, and Fluna is committed to helping Ugandan farmers comply with these standards. By working directly with coffee producers, we ensure traceability and responsible sourcing practices, giving buyers confidence in the sustainability of our coffee.

EUDR compliance is essential for Ugandan coffee to continue thriving in the EU, which accounts for approximately 63% of Uganda’s coffee exports, with Italy being the biggest importer, followed by Germany according to the Uganda Coffee Development Authority. Fluna’s robust documentation and quality assurance processes allow us to meet these standards, ensuring uninterrupted market access for Ugandan coffee in the EU and beyond.

Addressing Challenges in the Coffee Trade

The coffee trade faces numerous challenges, with fluctuating market prices and climate instability at the forefront. As supply has become increasingly unpredictable, coffee prices have hit record highs. For instance, Robusta prices reached a 45-year high by early May as demand continued to rise. Coffee prices overall have seen a 46% increase this year, marking a 91% jump from the same time last year.

Climate change further intensifies these challenges, with adverse weather patterns impacting crop yields and quality. Uganda’s coffee regions are now grappling with unpredictable rainfall and rising temperatures, which threaten the delicate conditions required for optimal coffee growth. Recent global events highlight this issue; Brazil’s 2021 frost wreaked havoc on Arabica crops, causing a nearly 13% price surge, and the country’s current drought—the worst in over seven decades—has exacerbated supply shortages. Meanwhile, Vietnam's Robusta yields have declined due to extreme heat and drought, nearly doubling Robusta coffee prices since early 2023.

Despite these challenges, Ugandan coffee has made a significant impact on the global stage, with increasing demand in regions like Europe, the United States, and Asia. Buyers around the world are drawn to Ugandan coffee for its unique flavour profiles and sustainable sourcing—a reputation that Fluna is proud to uphold. In recent years, Uganda’s coffee exports have risen steadily; in August alone, Uganda shipped 837,915 60-kg bags, marking an 82.9% increase year-on-year. This growth speaks to the dedication of Uganda’s farmers and the strength of partnerships that Fluna has cultivated internationally.

The journey of Ugandan coffee from the sunlit plantations to markets worldwide is a tale of resilience, craftsmanship, and collaboration. Each cup carries the story of Ugandan farmers, the expertise of dedicated processors, and Fluna’s commitment to bringing the richness of Uganda's coffee to the global stage.

Through meticulous quality control and strict EUDR compliance, we ensure that every bag of Ugandan coffee reaches consumers with integrity and distinction. So, the next time you savour a cup of Ugandan coffee, know that it’s a journey made possible by the hard work and passion of many.

At Fluna, we’re honoured to connect these unique Ugandan flavours with coffee lovers worldwide.

Ready to experience the best of Ugandan coffee? Get started with Fluna today at https://sourcing.fluna.co or contact us at sourcing@fluna.co to learn more.