The Nairobi Coffee Exchange (NCE) recorded strong trading performance in Sale 2 of the 2025/26 coffee season, reflecting steady demand and firm prices for Kenya’s premium coffee. The auction, held on October 14th, 2025, moved 10,770 bags of coffee weighing approximately 671,180 kilograms, generating USD 4.99 million, equivalent to around KES 666 million.
The average price across all coffee grades stood at USD 372 per 50-kg bag, translating to roughly Ksh 148 per kilogram of cherry (gross). Grade AA continued to command the highest market value, averaging USD 444 per bag and achieving a top price of USD 477 for a five-bag lot from Bungoma County. This premium performance highlights Kenya’s continued reputation for producing some of the world’s most sought-after coffee varieties.
Grade AB dominated the day’s trading, representing 31% of the total volume, followed by grade C at 28%, and Mbuni-MH at 10%. These mid-tier grades remain the backbone of Kenya’s coffee exports, serving diverse international markets that value quality consistency.
Among brokers, New KPCU PLC once again led the auction, trading 3,092 bags valued at USD 1.51 million. Alliance Berries Ltd followed closely, moving 2,768 bags worth USD 1.26 million. Minnesota Coffee Marketers Ltd sustained strong participation, selling 856 bags for USD 370,387. Other active brokers included KCCEMA, United Eastern, Kirinyaga Slopes, Kipkelion, Meru Union, and Murang’a Union. Coffee Estates Bourgeoisie Brokers Limited also featured, transacting 181 bags valued at USD 81,858.
On the buying front, Taylor Winch (Coffee) Ltd emerged as the top purchaser, accounting for coffee worth USD 1.59 million. Ibero Kenya Ltd, Louis Dreyfus Company, and C. Dormans SEZ Ltd also made significant purchases. Together, these four major exporters represented over 80% of the total market value, underscoring their continued dominance and influence in Kenya’s coffee export sector.
The sustained participation of leading brokers and exporters at the NCE highlights renewed investor confidence and a promising start to the 2025/26 coffee season. With quality-driven pricing and strong international demand, Kenya’s coffee sector appears well positioned for continued growth and competitive performance in global markets.
