Rwandan coffee farmers earned significantly more in 2025 as rising exports and higher global prices pushed the country’s coffee revenues to nearly Rwf 219 billion, according to the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB).
NAEB said Rwanda exported 28,860 tonnes of coffee last year, with the strong performance translating into better pay for farmers across the country.
On average, farmers earned Rwf 900 per kilogram of coffee, far exceeding the minimum farm-gate price of Rwf 600 per kilogram set by NAEB. The increase reflects stronger demand for Rwandan coffee on the international market and improved returns along the value chain.
“This shows that investments in productivity and market access are paying off for farmers,” NAEB said, citing expanded export volumes, higher international prices, and ongoing efforts to connect producers to new markets.
Compared to 2024, coffee export volumes rose by 39%, while total export earnings jumped by 65%, a sharp increase that farmers say has improved household incomes and financial stability.
The average export price per kilogram climbed by 19%, reaching USD 6.2 (over Rwf 9,000), helping drive the highest coffee revenues Rwanda has ever recorded, even though export volumes were similar to those seen in 2019.
In total, Rwanda exported 23,860 tonnes of unprocessed coffee in 2025, earning more than USD 148.6 million, up from USD 89.8 million in 2024.
Looking ahead, NAEB said the growth keeps Rwanda on track to meet its goal of generating USD 192 million in coffee export revenues by 2029, supported by continued investment in farmer productivity, quality improvement, and market diversification.
For many smallholder farmers, the 2025 results mark more than a record year, they signal a more secure and sustainable future built on coffee.
