Kenya Ships Over 4,200 Tonnes Of Flowers Ahead Of Valentine’s Day

      By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya 

Kenya’s flower industry has recorded a boost in exports, shipping more than 4,200 tonnes of roses in the past week as demand surged in anticipation of Valentine’s Day.

Despite increasing freight costs and tighter regulations in the horticulture sector, this marks a slight rise from last year’s 4,000 tonnes, according to the Kenya Flower Council (KFC).

The sector, which generates approximately Ksh110 billion in annual revenue, is facing new challenges as the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) plans to increase import and export charges by 25%.

KFC Chief Executive officer Clement Tulezi expressed concerns that the additional costs would significantly impact flower farmers.

Freight charges have doubled over the past year, rising from USD 2.1 to USD 4.3 per kilo, cutting into growers’ profit margins.

While demand in the European Union remains steady, exporters are dealing with stricter market regulations and tax burdens from both national and county governments.

Tulezi revealed that the industry currently pays 52 different taxes, making operations more expensive.

He also pointed out that the government owes flower farmers over Ksh10 billion in Value Added Tax refunds, further straining their businesses.

Disha Copreaux, CEO of Redland Roses, highlighted that small-scale growers are feeling the biggest impact from rising taxes and stricter export standards.

Additionally, a new pest has emerged, affecting both flower production and exports to Europe.

Despite these challenges, industry leaders believe the sector has the potential to expand and even double its output with better government support.