Recently, Kenya’s export sector, specifically export of fresh agricultural produce has overseen a dynamic transformation. The fresh produce export market is thriving beyond the European Union (EU) countries which is the cornerstone of Kenya’s exports. In order to promote resilience and economic stability the country is scaling up its markets and looking to capitalize the wide emerging market.
This blog explores the Kenyan fresh produce market, top export products, the export process, challenges, leading exporters, and insights on how farmers can find reliable export partners.
Key Fresh Produce Export Products in Kenya
- Cut Flowers: Predominantly roses, with the Netherlands receiving over 65% of exports.
- Fruits: Avocados, pineapples, mangoes, raspberries, passion fruits, and lemons.
- Vegetables: Chillies, basil, peppermint, fine beans, snow peas, mixed vegetables, snap peas, and herbs
European Union: A Major Export Market for Kenya’s Fresh Produce
The European nations (EU) accounts for major export destination of horticultural products (approximately 45%). Kenya earned KES 71.8 billion on revenue from horticultural products exported to the EU countries in 2024.
Top Fresh Produce Exports to the EU Market
Main export horticultural products to the EU market are;
- Cut flowers
- French Beans
- Snow Peas
- Vegetables
Challenges such as stringent pesticide regulations and rising production costs have led to quest for diversified markets beyond the EU region.
Italy: Key Market for Kenya’s Horticultural Products & Fruits
Italy remains a significant market for Kenyan horticultural products, particularly fruits, flowers, herbs, and spices.
According to the Star Magazine, Kenya projects an increase in quantity of fruits exports to Italy by 3% in the next 5 years. The export strategy will mainly focus on fruits such as avocado Oil and Hass Avocado. Kenya exported KES 1.4 billion worth produce to Italy in 2024 which accounted to 213,170 tonnes.
Emerging Fresh Produce Export Market
Kenya is actively exploring new markets to reduce dependency on traditional partners. The emerging export markets include;
- China & Japan: These Asian giants present opportunities for products like avocados, herbs, and fruits.
- United States & Canada: these countries are embracing organic and sustainable food products that align with Kenyan agricultural produce.
- Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia): Proximity and increasing demand for fresh for chillies and peppers make this region a strategic focus.
- Malaysia: another country with a potential market for fresh fruits and horticultural products.
- Russia & Turkey: Potential markets for value-added products and niche commodities.
Challenges of Fresh Produce Export Market
The Kenyan fresh produce export market faces several challenges despite the positive outlook. Major challenges include;
- Climate change: unpredictable weather conditions affect the consistency of the agricultural products.
- Pests and Diseases: Outbreaks can lead to export rejections and financial losses.
- Market Competition: Countries like Ethiopia and Rwanda offer lower production costs, posing competitive pressures.
- Logistical Constraints: high freight charges and insufficient storage facilities causes inefficient export.
- Regulatory Hurdles: multiple licensing requirements, and delayed inspections increase costs and delays.
- Pesticide Use: The use of banned pesticides poses health risks and can lead to export rejections.
How Fresh Produce is Exported from Kenya
Exporting fresh produce involves several key steps:
- Certification and Compliance: Get certified by acquiring necessary documents such as Global G.A.P., ISO. Comply with the regulations of the country to export products to.
- Quality Assurance: Implement strict quality control measures to meet international standards.
- Packaging and Labelling: Ensure packaging preserves freshness and labelling complies with export regulations.
- Logistics and Transportation: Choose appropriate transportation methods (air, sea, or land) and ensure cold chain management.
- Documentation: Prepare all necessary export documentation, including phytosanitary certificates, invoices, and bills of lading.
How Farmers Can Find Reliable Fresh Produce Exporters
Farmers seeking reliable export partners can find top exporters whom to sell their products by:
- Joining farming Cooperative societies: these societies offer one voice or bargaining power and access to export networks.
- Seeking Support from Government Agencies such as Agricultural and Food Authority(AFA) and Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency(KEPROBA).
- Utilizing digital platforms such as publications and Journals.
- Attending trade fairs and exhibitions where they can meet export agencies.
- Conducting proper online research on top explorers and ensuring they consider certified dealers.
The Future of Kenya’s Fresh Produce Export Market
The agricultural export sector is thriving. Kenya aims to diversify its global export market by strengthening existing foreign partnerships and fostering relations to acquire new markets.
It is important to maintain quality standards and sustainable practices while also investing on research to explore the evolving world market.