Uganda coffee players form national body to boost global competitiveness
The newly formed Commercial Coffee Producers Association of Uganda [CCPAU] was unveiled at its inaugural General Assembly in Kampala on Thursday, bringing together commercially oriented farmers, exporters, processors and co-operatives under a single platform focused on quality, branding and export growth
KAMPALA, March 24, 2026 — Stakeholders across Uganda’s coffee value chain have launched a new umbrella body aimed at strengthening the country’s foothold in the lucrative global market.
The newly formed Commercial Coffee Producers Association of Uganda [CCPAU] was unveiled at its inaugural General Assembly in Kampala on Thursday, bringing together commercially oriented farmers, exporters, processors and co-operatives under a single platform focused on quality, branding and export growth.
At the meeting, founding members adopted the association’s framework and elected its first Board of Directors, marking a significant milestone in efforts to coordinate Uganda’s coffee industry.
CCPAU is designed to unite businesses committed to quality and consistency, with a strategy anchored on six key priorities: improving productivity and standards, enhancing knowledge-sharing, expanding access to export markets, improving access to finance, strengthening logistics and fulfilment systems, and promoting Ugandan coffee globally.
By aligning commercial strategy with quality and collaboration, the association aims to boost Uganda’s reputation on the international stage, improve returns for producers, and increase collective bargaining power across the value chain.
The initiative builds on years of collaboration among private sector players under the UK Trade Partnerships Programme [UKTP], implemented by the International Trade Centre [ITC] with support from the British High Commission in Kampala.
Through the programme, Ugandan producers have participated in major international trade fairs, including the London Coffee Festival, Manchester Coffee Festival and CoffeeFest Madrid, helping to showcase Ugandan coffee and forge new business links.
“These engagements have laid the foundation for a formal, private sector-led platform to represent the interests of Uganda’s coffee producers and exporters,” officials said.
Speaking at the launch, British High Commissioner to Uganda, Lisa Chesney, said the UK remained committed to supporting Uganda’s ambition to move up the value chain.
“Coffee is one of Uganda’s most important exports, and the UK is proud to support efforts to increase exports of high-quality, high-value products, while building sustainable commercial links with international markets,” she said.
Membership of CCPAU is open to registered businesses across the coffee value chain, including commercial farms, nurseries, aggregators, co-operatives, processors and exporters, provided they meet quality and market development standards.
The association plans to support members with market intelligence, export readiness, buyer linkages and joint promotion initiatives, while also representing Uganda at international coffee events and facilitating entry into specialty markets.
Industry players say the formation of CCPAU marks a critical step towards positioning Ugandan coffee as a recognised global brand and a reliable source of high-quality beans. The country grows both Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties.
https://thecooperator.news/fao-welcomes-un-resolution-establishing-international-coffee-day/
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