Kenya is ramping up efforts to expand its horticultural exports to Italy, aiming for a 3% market share increase over the next five years.
Agricultural and Food Authority Director General, Dr. Bruno Linyiru, revealed that Kenya’s horticultural exports were valued at KSh 71.8 billion in 2024, with Italy accounting for 2% (KSh 1.4 billion). The goal is to boost this to KSh 3.6 billion.
Speaking at the signing of an MoU with MACFRUT, Italy’s leading fresh produce exhibition organizer, Linyiru noted that Kenya’s horticultural exports to the EU had declined from 213,170 tonnes (KSh 80.3 billion) in 2023 to 188,956 tonnes (KSh 71.8 billion) in 2024.
Over the past five years, Kenya exported 23,217 tonnes of horticultural produce to Italy, worth KSh 10.14 billion, representing 3% of total EU exports. Italy ranked as Kenya’s 11th largest horticultural export market, primarily importing fruits (55%), flowers (36%), herbs and spices (8%), and vegetables (1%). Key exports include avocado oil (62%) and fresh Hass avocados (32%).
Linyiru emphasized Kenya’s commitment to expanding its market share through the EU’s Economic Partnership Agreement, ensuring compliance with European standards via traceability systems and the Horticulture Code of Practice.
The MoU grants Kenya exhibition opportunities at MACFRUT, and exporters are encouraged to showcase their produce. Meanwhile, Ag. Director of the Horticultural Crops Directorate, Christine Chesaro, highlighted challenges such as EU interceptions, particularly for flowers and vegetables. Kenya is addressing these issues to meet full compliance with EU regulations by April 2025.
