Uganda Coffee Grades Overview: Screen Size and Defect Limits
Uganda coffee grades follow UCDA classification, which sorts every lot by screen size (the diameter of the bean in 1/64 inch increments) and defect count per 300 grams. Larger screens and fewer defects command higher prices, and the grade name tells a buyer exactly what is inside the bag.
Uganda exports two species under the same grading umbrella. Arabica grades, grown on the slopes of Mt. Elgon, the Rwenzoris and the southwest, cover Bugisu AA, Bugisu A, Bugisu AB, Wugar and Drugar. Robusta grades, from the Lake Victoria crescent and central regions, cover Screen 18, Screen 15 and Screen 12. All eight are regulated export grades that UCDA licences and inspects.
Arabica Coffee Grades: Bugisu AA to Drugar
Uganda Arabica grades sorted by screen size, with defect limits per 300g.
Bugisu AA
Uganda premium Arabica grade. Dark chocolate, stone fruit and red berries with wine-like acidity. The top lot for specialty roasters.
Bugisu A
Screen 17-18 Arabica with chocolate, citrus and mild spice. A mid-tier specialty grade for premium blends.
Bugisu AB
Smooth Arabica with caramel and nutty notes over light fruit. A commercial specialty workhorse for filter and cold brew.
Wugar
Washed Uganda Arabica with mild citrus, honey and toasted grain. Clean and consistent for supermarket programs.
Drugar
Dried Uganda Arabica with dried fruit and earthy notes. A value Arabica for large-scale blending.
Robusta Coffee Grades: Screen 18, Screen 15 and Screen 12
Uganda Robusta grades from the Lake Victoria crescent, where Robusta is indigenous.
Robusta Screen 18
Uganda top Robusta export grade. Bold dark chocolate body with low bitterness. Strong demand from espresso blends.
Robusta Screen 15
Large-bean Robusta with a bold cup, peanut and cocoa notes. A consistent choice for commercial roasters.
Robusta Screen 12
Standard Robusta export grade with strong cereal-toned cup. High yield per hectare at accessible pricing.
Uganda Coffee Grade FAQs
Two FAQ guides cover the questions importers ask most: how the grade names map to quality, how UCDA sampling works, and which grades fit which end use.