23/03/2026
The floriculture industry remains a key pillar of Kenya’s export economy, and sustained engagement with stakeholders is critical to addressing emerging challenges and unlocking growth.
At our regional meeting in Naivasha on Thursday last week, we convened farm owners, senior managers and government representatives to deliberate on the policy and operational landscape shaping the sector.
We highlighted several priority issues affecting members, including:
* Taxation challenges such as VAT refunds, VAT on locally produced products (including packed-at-source bouquets), UCR charges, the 25% import levy on Kraft paper, and new NEMA charges
* Logistics constraints, particularly infrastructure gaps, high freight costs, and limited cargo capacity
While noting ongoing collaboration with government, we emphasized the need for enhanced public-private partnerships (PPPs) to support market access initiatives such as trade fairs, as well as to address negative global perceptions impacting the floriculture industry.
Representing the PS Trade Regina Ombam, the Director of External Trade, Ms. Elizabeth Miguda, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the sector and strengthening PPP collaboration. Key issues, including NEMA charges, UCR charges and VAT on locally produced products, remain under active consideration at the Presidential Roundtable, with further feedback expected. The State Department for Trade will also follow up with the Council on emerging markets and global positioning efforts.
On regulatory compliance, KEPRO Kenya , through its CEO James Odongo, provided guidance on the EPR Regulations 2024. It was noted that fully export-oriented producers may not require PRO membership, subject to demonstrating that they export all their products. The Council continues to facilitate member onboarding to KEPRO where applicable.
In advancing sustainability, the Council is also progressing its partnership with MPS on the carbon footprint calculator, Hortifootprint, which will enable stem-by-stem tracking across the production cycle and support the industry’s sustainability commitments.
After all was said and done, one thing was clear:
The floriculture industry is ready to grow - but it requires a strong and deliberate partnership with government to unlock that growth.
The Council remains committed to working closely with government and industry stakeholders to enhance competitiveness, sustainability and long-term growth of Kenya’s floriculture sector.
A big thank you to our KFC FOSS Gold Certified member Flamingo Horticulture , for being an excellent host!