Uganda–China Coffee Partnership Brews Major Investment Boost as Inaugural Trade Tour Concludes

The first-ever Uganda–China Coffee Awareness Tour, launched on May 12, 2025, has officially concluded with a landmark event: the inaugural Uganda–China Coffee Trade and Investment Meeting.

The tour is being celebrated as a transformative milestone in Uganda–China relations, having deepened bilateral cooperation and unlocked new pathways for trade and investment in Uganda’s coffee sector.

Mr Bagiire Vincent Waiswa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary

Mr Bagiire Vincent Waiswa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary, spoke of the impactful journey that saw participants visit major coffee-producing regions including Masaka, Mbarara, and Mbale.

He revealed that the tour helped spotlight Uganda’s coffee potential, attracted interest in value addition, and created vital linkages between Ugandan farmers and Chinese buyers.

Speaking at the same event, Ambassador Oliver Wonekha, Uganda’s Head of Mission in Beijing, emphasized the strategic value of the partnership.

She pointed to Uganda’s favorable climate, high-quality Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties, and youthful farming population as key strengths that uniquely position Uganda to meet China’s surging demand for premium coffee. Ambassador Wonekha reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to eliminating trade barriers, enhancing market access, and promoting technology transfer and cultural exchange.

Ambassador Oliver Wonekha, Uganda’s Head of Mission in Beijing

On his part, Ambassador Zhang Lizhong, China’s envoy to Uganda, commended the tour’s success in strengthening bilateral trade and showcasing Uganda’s rich coffee heritage.

He reaffirmed China’s interest in sustainably sourced coffee and welcomed future collaborations founded on trust, trade, and technological exchange.

Ambassador Zhang Lizhong, China’s envoy to Uganda

Notably, Uganda’s coffee exports to China have surged by 190% as of March 2025, underscoring the growing importance of this market.

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Geoffrey Muheesi expressed appreciation to all stakeholders involved and called for continued collaboration to sustain the momentum.