Kenya is positioning itself for a major expansion of agricultural exports to Georgia, building on a strong 2024 performance in which the country shipped KSh 821 million worth of produce against imports of just KSh 58 million.
The wide trade surplus signals a significant opportunity for Kenyan farmers as the country moves to secure a stronger foothold in emerging Caucasus markets.
Fresh-cut flowers remained Kenya’s leading export to Georgia at KSh 777.8 million, followed by tea, fruits and coffee — and the government now aims to push these figures even higher.
During a high-level meeting with Georgia’s Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, David Songulashvili, Agriculture CS Sen. Mutahi Kagwe said Kenya is accelerating efforts to widen its export footprint.
He noted that the next phase is not only about increasing volumes but enhancing competitiveness through structured market entry, premium packaging and strengthened distribution networks across Georgia and the wider Caucasus.
“Kenya is pushing to expand access for its top exports to Georgia. With flowers already at KSh 777.8 million, we are looking at exponential growth. Our farmers must benefit from diversified, premium markets,” CS Kagwe said.
The two leaders agreed to fast-track market access by removing barriers that slow down Kenya’s agricultural exports, including faster SPS approvals, enhanced food safety certification systems and the creation of a Kenya–Georgia Joint Working Group to open markets and protect farmer earnings.
Kenya also moved to secure a more reliable supply of fertilizer — a key driver in reducing production costs.
CS Kagwe cautioned against over-reliance on Ukraine, noting that global disruptions could derail local food production.
Georgia expressed readiness to supply fertilizer and collaborate on local blending and production, offering competitive pricing and stable availability for Kenyan farmers.
Talks also advanced Kenya’s water and irrigation agenda, with Georgia set to support the integration of its advanced irrigation and water-resource technologies into ASAL irrigation schemes, solar-powered water systems and modern greenhouse operations.
These interventions are expected to raise productivity and bolster food security.
The partnership will additionally cover digital farming tools, precision agriculture, livestock vaccines, diagnostics, genetics, joint research between KALRO and Georgian institutions, and global-standard SPS and traceability systems.
This cooperation is expected to modernize Kenya’s agriculture, reduce post-harvest losses and improve product quality.
CS Kagwe reiterated the risks of relying heavily on Ukrainian wheat and a narrow pool of grain suppliers, warning that global shocks can destabilize Kenya’s wheat, maize and rice supply chains.
“Kenya must diversify its food import sources. Alternative partnerships mean security for our people and stability for our farmers,” he said.
The two countries also agreed to develop a Kenya–Georgia Agriculture MoU to formalize cooperation, drive investment and support joint ventures in agro-processing, agri-logistics, warehousing and agricultural innovation.
Minister Songulashvili reaffirmed Georgia’s commitment, describing Kenya as a key partner for agricultural distribution and market access in the region.
