Kenyan fresh produce exporters have assured European buyers of continued supply despite ongoing logistical challenges stemming from the Middle East conflict. Speaking at the opening of the Fruit Logistica 2025 trade show in Berlin, Kakuzi Plc Managing Director, Chris Flowers, emphasized that stakeholders, including exporters, shipping firms, and the Kenyan government, are collaborating to manage disruptions affecting the sector.
The closure of critical shipping routes, such as the Suez Canal and the Red Sea/Gulf of Aden passage, has significantly increased transit times for fresh produce exports. Previously, shipments to Europe took approximately 30 to 35 days, but current circumstances have extended this period to over 50 days. The extended journey times threaten the competitiveness of Kenyan agribusinesses, impacting their ability to deliver high-quality products to European markets in a timely manner.
Despite these setbacks, Mr. Flowers reassured buyers that efforts are underway to mitigate the delays. The Kenyan government, particularly the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture, is actively involved in ensuring timely and quality shipments. Additionally, leading export firms like Kakuzi are working closely with Kenya’s Phytosanitary authorities to uphold stringent maturity testing and surveillance measures, preventing the export of immature produce.
To adapt to the evolving situation, key shipping partners are developing faster routes to Europe. Currently, fresh produce such as avocados is shipped from Mombasa to Salalah, Oman, where containers are transferred onto larger vessels before navigating around the Cape of Good Hope to Europe. At present, shipments undergo trans-shipment at Spain’s Algeciras Port before reaching Northern Europe via Rotterdam or Felixstowe. However, beginning February 2025, a major shipping line will bypass Algeciras and head directly to Rotterdam from Salalah, potentially saving crucial transit days.
The Fruit Logistica 2025 trade fair is an essential platform for global fresh produce stakeholders, with over 2,600 exhibitors from more than 90 countries showcasing innovations across the industry’s value chain. The event also highlights the growing role of Smart Agri technology, featuring solutions such as AI-powered fruit yield estimation, precision irrigation, and drone-assisted farm management.
As the Kenyan fresh produce sector navigates these challenges, industry players remain committed to ensuring that European buyers receive high-quality produce on time. The collaborative efforts between exporters, shipping firms, and government agencies will be instrumental in maintaining Kenya’s position as a leading exporter in the global fresh produce market.
