In Uganda, no person or company is allowed to market, process, or export coffee without obtaining a Certificate of Registration for Internal Marketing of Coffee from the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA). This certificate ensures that only registered and compliant entities are permitted to handle coffee within the country’s value chain — from purchasing and processing to export preparation.
The process is regulated under the UCDA Coffee Act and Regulations, which outline the procedures and requirements for local marketing operations, ensuring transparency, quality control, and fair trade practices in the coffee sector.
Procedure: How to Apply for a Certificate of Registration for Internal Marketing of Coffee
Step 1: Obtain Application Form
Visit the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) headquarters or regional office and request Form 1 (Application for Registration Certificate). The form can also be accessed via UCDA’s official website.
Step 2: Fill the Application Form
Complete the form accurately, indicating whether you are applying for a new certificate or a renewal. Be sure to include the full company details, directors, and operational category (buyer, processor, or marketer).
Step 3: Attach Required Documents
Attach all supporting documents as prescribed by UCDA. These include:
- Proof of business registration (URSB registration certificate)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Company profile (showing shareholders and management structure)
- Letter of compliance from URSB
- Proof of payment for the prescribed registration fee
Step 4: Pay Prescribed Fees
Pay the appropriate license fee based on your operational category:
| Category | Description | Fee (UGX) |
|---|---|---|
| A | Four and above huller factory | 250,000 |
| B | Three huller factory | 200,000 |
| C | Two huller factory | 150,000 |
| D | One huller factory | 100,000 |
| E | Buying store / Roasting / Pulpery | 50,000 |
Renewal fees are the same as the initial registration fees. Payment can be made via bank deposit or mobile money through UCDA’s authorized channels.
Step 5: Submit Application
Submit the completed form, attached documents, and payment receipt either by email to the UCDA or through physical delivery to the UCDA offices at Coffee House, Plot 35 Jinja Road, Kampala.
Step 6: Evaluation and Approval
The UCDA reviews the application to ensure that all the requirements under the Coffee Regulations are met. If approved, a Certificate of Registration for Internal Marketing of Coffee is issued.
Step 7: Collect Your Certificate
Collect your certificate from the UCDA office where you submitted your application. This is typically available within one business day after the approval date, provided there are no discrepancies.
Note: The certificate is valid for one year and must be renewed before expiry to maintain compliance.
Required Documents
- Completed Form 1 (Application for Registration)
- Business registration certificate (URSB)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Company profile (including shareholders and management setup)
- Letter of compliance from URSB
- Payment receipt for the prescribed fees
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 engaged in coffee growing, processing, or exporting can apply for the certificate, provided they comply with UCDA regulations.
This certificate applies to all types and grades of coffee grown or imported into Uganda for marketing, processing, or export, except coffee in transit.
Fees
| Category | Fee (UGX) | Renewal (UGX) |
|---|---|---|
| Four and above huller factory (A) | 250,000 | 250,000 |
| Three huller factory (B) | 200,000 | 200,000 |
| Two huller factory (C) | 150,000 | 150,000 |
| One huller factory (D) | 100,000 | 100,000 |
| Buying store/Roasting/Pulpery (E) | 50,000 | 50,000 |
Validity
The certificate is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be renewed annually.
Processing Time
The maximum processing time is two (2) weeks, depending on the completeness of the application and UCDA’s verification process.
Required Information
- Full name and address of applicant
- Type of coffee marketed or processed
- Expected volume for the season
- Coffee marketing method (auction, tender, private treaty, etc.)
- Source of coffee
- Shareholder details
- Agent responsible for reprocessing
Need for the Document
The Certificate of Registration for Internal Marketing of Coffee ensures that only licensed and compliant entities participate in the local coffee value chain. This helps maintain quality standards, regulate trade, and prevent exploitation of coffee growers.
It also enables UCDA to monitor production, pricing, and movement of coffee within the country before export.
Information Which Might Help
- All registered entities must cooperate with UCDA inspectors during site visits.
- Denying access or obstructing an inspector is an offense under the Coffee Act.
- Coffee intended for transit through Uganda is exempt from this certificate.
Other Uses of the Certificate
- Serves as proof of compliance for internal coffee trade operations.
- Required for selling, roasting, processing, or storing coffee within Uganda.
- Enables participation in UCDA-approved coffee tenders and auctions.
- Assists in export readiness verification for companies transitioning to international markets.
