Ethiopia’s Coffee Exports Reach Record $1.5 Billion in Just Nine Months

Ethiopia has set a new benchmark in its coffee industry, earning over $1.5 billion in export revenue within the first nine months of the current Ethiopian fiscal year — a record-breaking performance that exceeds all previous annual figures.

The announcement was made by H.E. Dr. Adugna Debela, Director General of the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority, during a press conference on April 15. According to Dr. Debela, Ethiopia exported 299,607 tons of coffee between July and March, achieving 148% of its planned export target of 201,959 tons.

In revenue terms, the country generated $1.508 billion, surpassing its projected income of $1.094 billion by 38%. This marks a 72% increase in volume and an 81% increase in revenue compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year.

Leading Export Markets

Dr. Debela revealed the top destinations for Ethiopian coffee exports during this period:

• Saudi Arabia imported 53,844 tons (18%) and contributed $250 million (21%) in revenue.

• Germany followed with 51,107 tons (17%), generating $232.5 million (20%).

• The United States received 23,344 tons (8%), valued at $152.2 million (13%).

Other key markets included Belgium, China, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Italy, and Jordan.

Strategic Reforms Behind the Growth

The surge in export performance is attributed to a combination of strategic government reforms, improved productivity, and a strong focus on quality control and market diversification. The Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority has implemented measures to support farmers, modernize processing facilities, and promote Ethiopian coffee globally.

“Ethiopia is not just meeting targets — we are redefining them,” Dr. Debela stated. “Our reforms are producing tangible results, and Ethiopian coffee is gaining greater recognition and market share worldwide.”

Looking Ahead: $2 Billion Target

Building on this momentum, Ethiopia has set its sights on reaching $2 billion in coffee export revenue by the end of the fiscal year. This goal involves exporting more than 400,000 tons of coffee — an increase of over 100,000 tons in the final three months of the year.

Ethiopia, widely recognized as the birthplace of Arabica coffee, currently exports to 84 countries, reinforcing its status as a global coffee powerhouse.