Ugandan Tea Holds Near US$1.33/kg With Good Demand in The Latest Mombasa Update

What changed

Van Rees described good demand for Ugandan tea and a broadly steady overall average around US$1.33/kg in the latest Mombasa sale observations.

Procurement decision

Use comparative blind cupping and then test the approved candidate in the finished blend. Ask for factory and batch records, laboratory scope and a clear dispatch plan. Where the recipe includes multiple origins, quantify the candidate's role instead of assuming a complete substitution. Buyers should compare the fully prepared export parcel on equal terms, including packaging recovery and any inland or port-related costs.

HOUTU TEA market reading

A low origin average does not make the tea unsuitable, nor does it guarantee that any particular invoice can replace another origin. HOUTU TEA sees the stable-demand signal as a reason to investigate well-documented Ugandan offers rather than dismiss them on price alone. The commercial advantage depends on liquor contribution, particle consistency and a supplier's ability to deliver repeatable batches at the required time.

Illustrative order scenario - not an actual transaction

A budget tea-bag brand could qualify a Ugandan component for one part of its blend and retain a stronger component from another origin. The trial should measure taste and infusion at the existing dosage. Only after approval should the buyer negotiate repeat supply and set the commercial substitution limit.

Buyer action checklist

• Blind-cup qualified invoices
• Test the candidate in the finished blend
• Document batch identity and dispatch readiness
• Normalise export preparation before comparing costs

Limits and risk

The average describes the invoices sold, not every Ugandan tea or a direct export quotation. It cannot establish a universal quality rating or guarantee prompt availability.