The tea and coffee exports for Kenya continue to propel exports to the UK, which recorded a new high in trade. In the third quarter of 2025, exports from Kenya to the UK recorded an increase of 12% in the third quarter of 2025. The growth in exports is attributed mainly to tea, coffee, and horticulture products.
The UK government data indicates that the overall trade between Kenya and the UK recorded its highest point of Sh360 billion over the last four quarters to Q3 2025. The data indicates that this is the second straight quarter that the country has recorded this record. Tea continues to drive exports to the UK. On the other hand, coffee exports recorded an increase due to the interest that the UK market has in processed and blended coffee.
The success recorded by horticulture products, which include cut flowers, fruits, and vegetables, is attributed to the ease of doing business in the UK and the UK-Kenya EPA. The economic partnership agreement has made planning easier for horticulture exports. The growth in exports has been recorded in the midst of inflation and rising interest rates and geopolitical tensions.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s imports from the UK during this period were higher, including fuel, vehicles, machinery, and power equipment.
Exports from the UK to Kenya grew by 4.5% during this period. However, this was slower than Kenya’s own rate of growth.
A joint press release from the UK Embassy and Kenya’s Ministry of Trade stated that this was due to the UK-Kenya Business Forum held in Nairobi in January. The event saw over 200 businesses come together to discuss trade opportunities and challenges.
Key issues discussed included how best Kenya could improve its supply chains for agriculture, ease transportation and standards issues, and help Kenyan businesses add value through processing and branding.
“Exports from Kenya to the UK grew by 10.7% during this period. These figures are an indication of a strong and growing partnership. The UK-Kenya relationship is good for businesses of all sizes. We will continue working with Kenya to address any trade barriers that may still exist,” said UK Chargé d’Affaires Dr. Ed Barnett.
Trade CS Lee Kinyanjui noted that this was proof of Kenya’s hard work in promoting its exports. “We are glad that trade with the UK is growing. Trade with the UK creates jobs, generates foreign exchange, and opens new doors for Kenya’s youth in agriculture, manufacturing, and value-added production.”