By Victoria Amunga | 5484 Media | Nairobi , Kenya
Kenya’s floriculture industry continues to demonstrate resilience and adaptability despite persistent global economic challenges, with renewed growth being driven by expanding demand in Middle Eastern markets.
Industry leaders report that Kenyan flowers are gaining strong traction in Arab countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Iraq and Qatar. According to the Kenya Flower Council (KFC), the superior quality of Kenyan flowers has been instrumental in unlocking these emerging markets.
Speaking during a media briefing on Thursday, Kenya Flower Council Chief Executive Officer Clement Tulezi said the industry’s reputation for quality and consistency is accelerating access to non-traditional export destinations.
“In recent years, we have seen increased demand for Kenyan flowers in Middle Eastern markets. Quality remains our strongest competitive advantage,” Tulezi said.
According to the Council’s 2024 industry report, Kenya’s flower exports recorded modest growth in both volumes and farm-gate values despite global inflationary pressures and high freight costs. During the period, the sector generated export earnings of approximately USD 835 million, equivalent to KES 108 billion—underscoring sustained international confidence in Kenyan floriculture.
However, the industry continues to face significant trade barriers in parts of Asia. Kenyan flowers attract tariffs of up to 52 per cent in South Korea and 24 per cent in China, limiting competitiveness in those markets.
“We have consistently engaged the Ministry of Trade to pursue bilateral agreements with these countries and negotiate lower tariffs,” Tulezi noted. “If you examine the balance of trade, it is often in their favour, which strengthens our case for improved market access.”
In a bid to reduce overreliance on the traditional European market, the industry is also exploring opportunities in the United States. Officials acknowledge that the American market is currently dominated by flower exports from Colombia and Ecuador, presenting stiff competition.
“It is a market of great interest to us, but entry will require a well-thought-out strategy to compete effectively with established suppliers like Colombia and Ecuador,” Tulezi said.
The floriculture sector remains a critical pillar of Kenya’s economy, directly employing more than 200,000 workers and supporting over two million livelihoods, particularly among women and youth.
Officials further report a notable rise in the participation of smallholder growers, who are increasingly supplying export markets through consolidation arrangements—broadening the sector’s socio-economic impact.
As global markets remain volatile, industry stakeholders say strategic market diversification, trade negotiations and sustained quality standards will be key to securing the future growth of Kenya’s floriculture industry.
