Floweringexports
Kenya’s horticultural exports see a growing shift toward China
JOSCAN Makau and his wife Elias have been horticultural farmers in Kenya for years and recently seen a shift in their market options.
The couple, who farm in Kutumani, Machakos County in east Kenya, are also proprietors of Macau Fruits Ltd., and turning their eyes east when it comes to exports.
“Apart from exporting to Europe, I also put focus also on exporting to China, which is presenting us with opportunities,” said Makau. “On our 35-acre (14 hectares) farm, we grow mangos, kale, bananas, baby carrots, and amaranth (a traditional African vegetable).” He can make a profit of $100,000 per year from his farm.
His customers are mostly private restaurants and three supermarket chains in China, while in Western Europe, he supplies the giant Carrefour supermarket chain with produce.
According to the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), the shift in horticultural exports from Europe to China is now becoming more evident.
Kiprono Kittony, Chairman of KNNCI, a chamber under the country’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Cooperatives, said figures show that exports could rely entirely on the Chinese market in future.
“The trade restrictions governing the EU are immense. Despite good opportunities of good money for exporters there, legal trade restrictions prevail and continue to discourage exporters,” said Kittony.
Cut flowers which are used in weddings and funerals are the leading horticultural exports to China. The flowers grown in Kenya include roses, orchids, carnations and gladioli and are mainly in the central and