The UK government has reduced checks and inspection fees for selected Kenyan horticultural produce. This decision is expected to increase Kenya’s exports to the UK, which have already seen growth in recent months.
Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary, Salim Vuer, announced the reduction in inspection rates for some Kenyan produce from 10% to 5%. This reduction applies to key horticultural exports such as snow peas and cut flowers, which are among Kenya’s largest agricultural exports to the UK. The move comes as part of ongoing efforts to facilitate smoother trade between the two nations, especially in the post-Brexit context, where both countries are seeking to deepen bilateral relations.
In a spirit of reciprocity, Kenya has also decided to reduce the import duty on whiskey from the UK. Previously set at 35%, the duty has now been lowered to 25%, further promoting trade between the two countries. This adjustment is expected to provide a boost to UK exports to Kenya, particularly in the alcoholic beverages sector.
Kenyan horticultural exports to the UK have shown a positive trend. In the first quarter of 2024 (January to March), Kenya exported fruits and vegetables worth 20.3 billion Kenyan Shillings to the UK, marking a 1.5% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This growth is expected to continue through the remainder of the year, bolstered by the UK’s reduction in inspection fees.
The UK’s decision to lower the inspection rate was facilitated by Kenya’s enhanced surveillance on horticultural produce destined for key international markets. This strengthened monitoring ensures that products meet international quality standards, which in turn has allowed for fewer checks upon arrival in the UK.
Additionally, the UK has waived the 10% tariff on Kenyan flowers exported through the European Union, providing significant relief to Kenyan flower exporters. This waiver, which will be in effect for at least two years, eliminates a key barrier to trade and is expected to boost flower exports from Kenya, one of the world’s leading producers of cut flowers.
Further deepening the relationship, UK investors have pledged to construct a 1.3 billion Shilling macadamia and cut flower processing facility in Lamu, Kenya. This facility is anticipated to enhance Kenya’s export capacity, while creating jobs and boosting the local economy.
With these new developments, Kenya is optimistic that its horticultural exports to the UK will continue to grow, driving economic development and strengthening trade relations between the two countries.
