Coffee
Kenya’s coffee industry continues to show resilience, with prices rising by 3% during Sale Number 18 at the Nairobi Coffee Exchange (NCE). The latest auction saw both an increase in volume traded and higher average prices, signalling strong market demand for Kenyan coffee.
Coffee Auction Performance: Key Highlights
Total Coffee Sold: 33,673 bags (50 kg each), up from 32,801 bags in Sale Number 17.
Average Price per Bag: $383.19, an increase from $368.24 in the previous auction.
Price Per Kilogram:
- Clean Coffee: Ksh 989 per kg
- Cherry Coffee: Ksh 152 per kg
Read: Nairobi Coffee Exchange Market Reports

Record-Breaking Prices at the Auction
One of the most notable moments of the auction was a record-high price of $459 per bag, achieved by Mutuya Factory, part of Gititu Farmers’ Cooperative Society (FCS) in Kiambu County.
Breaking Down the Premium Price:
- Ksh 1,184 per kg of clean coffee
- Ksh 182 per kg of cherry
This exceptional price underscores the global demand for high-quality Kenyan coffee, particularly from cooperatives known for their premium-grade production.
Read Also: The Best Coffee to Plant in Kenya: Batian or Ruiru 11?
Auction Earnings See Significant Growth
The total earnings from Sale Number 18 reached $15,784,161.04 (approximately Ksh 2 billion), reflecting an increase from the $14,767,273.04 recorded in the previous auction.
Premium Coffee Dominates the Market
- Premium AA and AB Grades accounted for 71% of the total volume traded.
- Total volume of premium grades sold: 1,628 bags (64% of total premium sales).
What This Means for Farmers & The Market
The steady rise in coffee prices and auction earnings signals positive momentum for coffee farmers and cooperatives in Kenya. Higher prices translate to better returns for producers, particularly those delivering top-grade coffee.
However, market trends remain sensitive to global demand, weather conditions, and production costs. Farmers and traders should closely monitor pricing trends and market dynamics to maximize their earnings.
Final Thoughts: Will Prices Continue to Rise?
With the continued preference for high-quality AA and AB coffee grades, Kenyan coffee remains a top contender in global markets. If demand remains strong, prices could continue their upward trend in upcoming sales.
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