If you’re looking to export coffee from Uganda, obtaining an International Coffee Organization (ICO) certificate is a crucial step. This certificate ensures that your coffee meets international standards, allowing you to export it globally. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for an ICO certificate with the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA).
Application Procedure
- Determine the Export Requirements
- Before starting the application, you need to know the specific details regarding the type of coffee being exported, the destination country, and the export timeline.
- Contact Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA)
- Applicants must approach the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) to apply for the Certificate of Origin for each coffee consignment. Visit the UCDA website for more information.
- Complete the Application Form
- Obtain the application form from the UCDA. Complete the form with all necessary details, including:
- Name and address of the applicant
- Details of the company (if applicable), including directors and shareholders
- Coffee export business plan with a description of the technical and financial aspects
- Evidence of access to a coffee reprocessing factory capable of producing export-grade coffee
- Obtain the application form from the UCDA. Complete the form with all necessary details, including:
- Attach Required Documents
- Along with the completed application form, attach the following documents:
- National Identity Card or Passport for the applicant
- Environmental Impact Assessment Report (if applicable)
- Performance Bond (as required by UCDA)
- Export license for coffee export
- Sales contract or purchase agreements with buyers
- Proof of access to coffee reprocessing facilities
- Cites certificate for wild coffee (if applicable)
- Along with the completed application form, attach the following documents:
- Submit the Application
- Submit the completed form and all required documents to the Uganda Coffee Development Authority for review. Additionally, send a copy of the application to the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives.
- Evaluation and Verification
- UCDA will evaluate the application and verify whether the applicant meets the required conditions for exporting coffee. This may include a feasibility study to ensure the applicant’s capacity to meet international coffee standards.
- Approval and Certificate Issuance
- Once UCDA is satisfied with the application, and all conditions are met, the ICO certificate will be issued. The applicant will be notified and can collect the certificate.
Required Documents
- Completed application form for ICO certificate
- Copy of National ID or Passport
- Performance Bond (as stipulated by UCDA)
- Export license
- Sales contract or purchase agreements
- CITES certificate (for wild coffee, if applicable)
- Environmental Impact Assessment report (if required)
- Proof of access to coffee reprocessing factory
- Clearance from the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives
Eligibility
- Ugandan individuals or companies interested in engaging in the coffee export business are eligible to apply for the ICO certificate.
- Applicants must be UGAPRIVI Training Levy contributors and up-to-date with their contributions.
Fees
- ICO Certificate Fee: UGX 25,000
- Fees for export permits and other related licenses may apply.
Processing Time
- The maximum processing time for issuing the ICO certificate is 1 day, provided all documentation and requirements are met.
Validity
- The ICO certificate is valid for each specific consignment and must be renewed for each new batch of coffee exports.
Office Locations & Contacts
- Uganda Coffee Development Authority – Head Office
Physical Address: Coffee House, Plot 35 Jinja Road, P.O. Box 7267, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 256940 / +256 312 260470
Fax: +256 414 256994
Email: [email protected]
Website: Uganda Coffee Development Authority - Ministry of Trade, Industry & Cooperatives
Physical Address: Plot 6/8, Parliamentary Avenue, Kampala, Uganda
Postal Address: P.O. Box 7103, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 312 324 000 | +256 312 324 268
Email: [email protected]
Website: Ministry of Trade, Industry & Cooperatives
Need for the Document
The ICO Certificate is essential for exporting coffee from Uganda to international markets. It ensures that the coffee complies with global standards and is recognized by the importing countries.
Other Uses of the Document
The ICO certificate serves as a proof of compliance with international coffee standards and helps establish the credibility of the exporter in the global market.
By following these steps and ensuring all necessary documents are in order, you can successfully apply for an International Coffee Organization (ICO) Certificate and begin your coffee export business from Uganda.
