Rwanda's coffee industry has achieved a significant milestone, winning six awards at the 2026 ASEAN Coffee Excellence Awards (ACEA). The awards, which were presented to coffee producers from around the world, saw three types of Rwandan coffee receive the prestigious Platinum award, which is given to coffee with a score of 90% or higher. This achievement further solidifies Rwanda's reputation as a country with high-quality coffee, particularly specialty coffee, which is in high demand in international markets.
A total of 10 types of Rwandan coffee were submitted to the competition, with six of them receiving awards. In addition to the three Platinum awards, three other Rwandan coffees received Gold awards, which are given to coffee with a score between 80% and 89%. The awards are a testament to the hard work of coffee producers in Rwanda and the country's focus on quality. According to Claude Bizimana, CEO of the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), the awards demonstrate Rwanda's commitment to producing high-quality coffee.
The Platinum award is the highest honor given at the ASEAN Coffee Excellence Awards, and Rwanda's coffee producers have shown that they can compete with the best in the world. The awards also highlight the country's efforts to increase the value of its coffee, from production to export. Rwanda's coffee industry is a significant contributor to the country's economy, and the government is working to increase production, improve processing, and access international markets.
The awards come on the back of a successful coffee auction in which a kilogram of Rwandan coffee sold for 670 Frw, a record high. The auction, which took place on October 21, 2026, demonstrates the growing demand for Rwandan coffee. The country's coffee industry is working to build on this success, with a focus on producing high-quality coffee that meets the demands of international markets.
Rwanda's coffee producers are known for their high-quality Arabica coffee, which is grown in the country's highlands. The country's coffee industry is supported by a number of cooperatives and organizations that work to improve production, processing, and marketing. The awards are a recognition of the hard work and dedication of these producers and organizations.
The ASEAN Coffee Excellence Awards are a prestigious competition that brings together coffee producers from around the world. The awards are based on a rigorous evaluation process that assesses the quality of the coffee, including its flavor, aroma, and acidity. Rwanda's success in the competition is a testament to the country's commitment to producing high-quality coffee.
The Rwandan government is working to support the country's coffee industry, with a focus on improving production, processing, and marketing. The government has established a number of programs to support coffee producers, including training and technical assistance. The awards are a recognition of the government's efforts to support the industry and promote Rwanda's coffee globally.
Key points
- Rwanda's coffee wins six awards at 2026 ASEAN Coffee Excellence Awards.
