Whether it’s a home-brewed cup, a roadside vendor balancing thermoses and mandazi, or a perfectly foamed cappuccino at your favourite café, coffee in East Africa is more than just a drink. With International Coffee Day just behind us, it’s worth remembering that behind every sip lies the story of farmers, exporters, innovators, and packaging specialists shaping the region’s global footprint.
East Africa’s Growing Global Footprint
East African coffee doesn’t just stay in the region; it fuels mornings and cafés across the world. The European Union remains the biggest destination, with Germany, Italy, Belgium, Spain, and France among the top importers. Demand is also rising in North America and Asia, making the region’s coffee a truly global product.
This appetite has translated into strong growth. According to the International Coffee Organization, Africa’s coffee exports surged by 33.3% in May 2025 compared to May 2024, climbing from 1.75 million to 2.33 million bags. Uganda and Ethiopia drove much of this, together contributing more than 75% of Africa’s exports for the month. Ethiopia, in particular, is pushing reforms — from improved seedlings to better farmer support — and is projecting an output of 11.6 million bags in the 2025/26 season, with about 7.8 million set for export.
From Ethiopia’s floral Yirgacheffe to Kenya’s bold AA and Uganda’s robusta, East African beans are known for quality, traceability, and distinct flavours. Some varieties are even reserved primarily for export due to their premium value.
Why Packaging & Value Addition Matter More Than Ever
Export volumes alone don’t tell the whole story. For East Africa to remain competitive, coffee must be appealing and aligned with international expectations. Freshness and longevity are key: how do we ensure aroma and flavour last long after the beans leave the farm?
Already, 47% of companies in the region focus on packaging that improves shelf life and consumer appeal, while 52% use recyclable materials. Another 42% are embracing compostable or bio-based films, reflecting a growing demand for sustainability. Global buyers want more than great flavour — they expect compliant, sustainable, and attractive packaging too.
Real-World Innovation from East Africa’s Industry Players
Regional companies are stepping up. Silafrica has pioneered sustainable packaging solutions that enhance durability and shelf appeal. Infusion Kraft Africa (Heaves International, Kenya) offers biodegradable pouches and compostable canisters, while Ethiopia’s Haro Coffee is producing paper cups and bags to expand local value addition.
These innovations prove that packaging is no longer optional — it is central to how East African coffee competes globally.
The Role of Propak Stakeholders
This is where Propak’s ecosystem plays a vital role. From packaging producers and machinery providers to printers, designers, and exporters, each stakeholder ensures East African coffee travels well and stands out on supermarket shelves from Berlin to Boston. Vacuum-sealed packs, resealable pouches, paper-based mono-materials, and improved branding are already making an impact.
As East Africa rises in global exports, the difference between good coffee and great coffee lies in these complementary innovations. By embracing packaging and value addition, the region ensures every bag of coffee is not only consumed but celebrated.
Here’s to sipping more than just flavour — here’s to tasting heritage, innovation, and opportunity in every cup.
