NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya and the European Union (EU) have launched the Kenya–EU Export Catalogue, aimed at expanding the flower market in Europe.
The catalogue, established by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers and development partners, will allow Kenyan exporters to meet new buyers in the European market.
The export catalogue is also expected to expand the country’s exports, including food and beverages, textiles and apparel, leather products, chemicals, furniture, pharmaceuticals, building materials and electrical products, in addition to flowers and fresh produce exports.
Data from the State Department for Trade shows that Kenya’s exports only cover 10% of the European market, leaving a wider gap that is yet to be tapped.
Secretary, State Department for Trade Michael Mundu said the export catalogue could help in addressing the balance-of-payments issue that is affecting the value of the Kenyan shilling, as dollar inflows remain subdued compared with exports.
“We need a deliberate export strategy that identifies products with strong market potential, strengthens the competitiveness of local enterprises, promotes value addition and addresses the barriers that limit our access to international markets,” said Mundu.
Mundu said the Kenya–EU Economic Partnership Agreement provides a strong foundation, and the country’s focus should be on turning it into tangible results through increased exports, stronger business partnerships and greater participation by Kenyan enterprises in the European market.
KAM Board Chairperson Hitesh Mediratta said Kenya must first address the structural barriers that continue to undermine the competitiveness of its manufacturers, such as high cost of production and expensive and unreliable energy, in order to tap into the new EU market.
“Market access alone is not enough. Export competitiveness is the key that unlocks opportunity. Manufacturers must consistently meet global standards for quality, sustainability, compliance and reliability at a competitive price,” said Mediratta.
Mediratta noted that KAM continues to work with Government and development partners to help them navigate EU regulations, attain internationally recognised certifications and connect with buyers through business linkages, market intelligence and trade missions.
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