In Uganda, no person or company is allowed to export coffee without first obtaining a Certificate of Registration as a Coffee Exporter from the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA). This registration ensures that exporters meet the quality, safety, and market standards established under the UCDA Coffee Act Regulations.
Uganda is one of the world’s leading producers of Arabica and Robusta coffee, making coffee export a critical national business. Obtaining this certificate helps ensure that all coffee exported meets international standards and aligns with Uganda’s trade obligations.
Procedure: How to Apply for a Coffee Exporter Registration Certificate
Step 1: Obtain and Fill Application Form 3
Visit the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) headquarters or regional office and request Form 3 (Application for Registration as Coffee Exporter). The form can also be accessed through UCDA’s website or trade facilitation centers.
Step 2: Attach Required Documents
Submit the completed Form 3 along with supporting documents as required by UCDA. These include:
- Full name and address of the applicant
- Company profile (with Memorandum and Articles of Association)
- Proof of registration from Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB)
- Performance bond equivalent to USD 25,000 (in Uganda Shillings, non-cash)
- Evidence of access to a coffee reprocessing factory capable of producing export-grade coffee
- Phytosanitary Certificate from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF)
- Certificate of Origin from the Kampala Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- Quality Certificate from UCDA or other relevant bodies
- Valid Export Certificate or License from the Ministry of Trade, Tourism and Industry
Step 3: Pay Prescribed Fees
Pay the registration fee of UGX 1,500,000 to UCDA. The payment can be made at designated commercial banks or via URA’s e-payment system under UCDA’s account code. Retain the payment receipt for submission.
Step 4: Submit Application
Submit the filled application form, attached documents, and payment receipt to the UCDA registration desk. Applications can be submitted in person or through an authorized agent.
Step 5: UCDA Evaluation and Approval
The UCDA reviews the application, verifying compliance with all regulatory requirements and ensuring that the applicant has access to a qualified reprocessing factory.
If satisfied, UCDA issues the Certificate of Registration as Coffee Exporter in Form 4.
If not, UCDA provides written reasons for rejection or recommendations for improvement.
Step 6: Collection of Certificate
The certificate is usually ready within one business day after approval. Collect it from the UCDA office where the application was submitted.
Note: UCDA may impose export limits based on Uganda’s international market quotas and sustainability obligations.
Required Documents
- Completed Form 3 (Application for Registration as Coffee Exporter)
- Business Registration Documents (URSB proof letter)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Performance Bond (UGX equivalent of USD 25,000)
- Phytosanitary Certificate (MAAIF)
- Quality Certificate (UCDA or CDO)
- Certificate of Origin (Kampala Chamber of Commerce)
- Export License (Ministry of Trade, Tourism & Industry)
- Proof of reprocessing facility access
- Company profile with shareholder information
Office Locations & Contacts
Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA)
Coffee House, Plot 35 Jinja Road, Kampala, Uganda
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
Eligibility
- Any individual or registered company in Uganda involved in the coffee trade.
- Must demonstrate technical and financial capacity to handle export operations.
- Must have access to a certified coffee reprocessing facility producing export-grade coffee.
Fees
| Type of Fee | Amount (UGX) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Fee | 1,500,000 | Annual |
| Renewal Fee | 1,500,000 | Annual |
| Performance Bond | Equivalent of USD 25,000 | Once (non-cash) |
Validity
The Coffee Exporter Registration Certificate is valid for one (1) year from the date of issue and must be renewed annually before expiry.
Processing Time
The maximum processing period is three (3) weeks, depending on the completeness of the application and verification process.
Required Information
- Full name and physical address of the applicant
- Company registration details
- Type and quantity of coffee to be exported
- Coffee marketing mode (auction, tender, private treaty, barter, etc.)
- Source of the coffee for export
- Details of reprocessing agent and facility
- Shareholder and management information
Need for the Document
The Certificate of Registration as Coffee Exporter is mandatory for anyone involved in the export of coffee from Uganda. It ensures compliance with UCDA regulations, facilitates access to international coffee markets, and protects the reputation of Uganda’s coffee industry by maintaining consistent quality standards.
Information Which Might Help
- Coffee exporters must adhere to UCDA quality control and traceability systems.
- Export quantities may be restricted during specific trade seasons to meet quota obligations.
- Exporters must report monthly export data to UCDA for monitoring and compliance.
Other Uses of the Certificate
- Serves as official authorization to engage in international coffee trade.
- Required for customs clearance at Ugandan ports of exit.
- Enables participation in coffee tenders, auctions, and trade fairs.
- Used as proof of compliance for foreign buyers and trade partners.
