Kenyan Fresh Produce Exporters Reassure European Buyers Amid Logistical Disruptions

Kenya’s fresh produce industry is fighting to maintain its foothold in the European market as logistical hurdles persist due to the Middle East conflict.

Despite prolonged shipping delays and rising operational costs, local exporters are determined to uphold their reputation for delivering quality produce on time.

Kakuzi An export consignment of fresh avocados container load prepared before departure for the port of Mombasa at Kakuzi Plc Packhouse

Speaking at the Fruit Logistica 2025 trade show in Berlin, Kakuzi Plc Managing Director Chris Flowers reassured international buyers that Kenyan stakeholders—including producers, exporters, shipping firms, and government agencies are working tirelessly to navigate the ongoing challenges.

“The tensions have significantly impacted our competitiveness and pose a threat to agribusiness players,” Mr. Flowers admitted.

“Shipments that once took 30 to 35 days now take over 50 days to reach Europe. However, I can assure you that all stakeholders, including Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture, are working together to ensure our produce arrives on time and in top quality.”

The Suez Canal and the Red Sea/Gulf of Aden,critical trade routes for Kenyan exports have become increasingly treacherous due to geopolitical unrest.

Attacks on vessels and heightened security risks have forced shipping companies to take longer, costlier detours around the Cape of Good Hope, further straining the supply chain.

To mitigate these delays, Flowers revealed that Kenyan exporters are collaborating with key shipping partners to optimize routes.

“Starting in February 2025, one major shipping line will bypass Algeciras Port and head directly to Rotterdam from Salala, potentially saving precious days,” he noted.

Beyond logistics, Kenyan exporters are also focused on maintaining high quality standards.

Flowers emphasized Kakuzi’s close cooperation with Kenyan Phytosanitary authorities to prevent the export of immature fruit through enhanced maturity testing and surveillance.

As global industry leaders gather in Berlin for Fruit Logistica 2025, Kenya remains a key player in the fresh produce market.

The event, featuring over 2,600 exhibitors from more than 90 countries, provides a crucial platform for exporters to showcase their resilience and explore innovative solutions.

With a record number of Smart Agri exhibitors, the trade show is also highlighting AI-driven farm management, precision irrigation, and drone technology, signaling a shift towards a more efficient and sustainable future for agriculture.

As the challenges persist, Flowers issued a rallying call:

“We all need to put our heads together and resolve any bottlenecks that exist.”

For Kenya’s fresh produce sector, the road ahead may be bumpy but the commitment to quality and timely delivery remains unwavering.