Rome:Kenya The government is stepping up efforts to broaden international markets for its tea and coffee exports. This initiative focuses on value addition, modernization of factories, and forming strategic partnerships to increase export earnings and improve returns for farmers.
According to Kenya News Agency, the strategy includes diplomatic engagement with the European Union (EU) to secure broader market access, while domestic investments aim to enhance processing capacity, product quality, and the competitiveness of Kenya’s agricultural exports.
Tea is a key export commodity for Kenya, supporting approximately five million jobs directly and indirectly. Data from the Tea Board of Kenya indicates that tea production increased by 24% from 2019 to 2023, highlighting its significance in the agricultural sector. Kenya is the third-largest tea producer globally, with export earnings reaching Sh215.21 billion (US$1.7 billion) in 2024.
The increase in earnings was aided by expanding export destinations, with Kenyan tea reaching 96 countries in 2024. Pakistan remained the top importer, followed by Egypt, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, and Russia. These ten leading destinations accounted for about 81% of Kenya’s total tea export volume in 2024.
Despite successful exports, the sector saw a production decline in early 2025, emphasizing the need for enhanced productivity and modern processing facilities. The government is pursuing measures to strengthen production capacity and increase agricultural export value.
In Rome, discussions led by Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh Paul with the EU focused on expanding market access for Kenyan tea and coffee, promoting agro-processing, and improving fertilizer access. The Kenya-European Union Economic Partnership Agreement is being leveraged to maximize trade opportunities and competitiveness.
The government is also providing Sh3.5 billion through the Kenya Development Corporation to modernize tea factories. The Kenya Tea Development Agency has been encouraged to use a separate KSh3.7 billion facility for similar purposes. President William Ruto highlighted the importance of value addition during the handover of Sh7 billion in recovered deposits to KTDA.
The modernization program aims to enhance processing efficiency and explore higher-value tea products. For coffee, engagement with the EU is seen as a chance to boost market access and product development. By combining trade diplomacy, affordable financing, and investments, Kenya seeks to strengthen its agricultural value chains and ensure better returns for farmers.
