The United Kingdom has announced a reduction in inspection tariffs on horticultural products from Kenya, cutting the rate from 10 percent to 5 percent.
This decision, revealed by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry, Salim Mvurya, is set to boost the competitiveness of Kenyan produce in the UK market.
Mvurya explained, “Previously, inspection tariffs were set at 10 percent, but they have now been reduced to 5 percent.”
He noted that this reduction will alleviate the financial burden on exporters, who had previously been required to test 100 grams of every kilogram of produce, increasing their costs.
The announcement followed a meeting between Mvurya and British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, in Nairobi. The meeting was also attended by Principal Secretaries Alfred K’Ombudo (Trade), Juma Mukhwana (Industry), and Abubakar Hassan (Investment Promotion).
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This tariff reduction is a significant victory for Kenya’s agricultural sector, which exports large quantities of vegetables to the UK daily. Products such as peas, beans, and other leguminous vegetables, which make up the bulk of these exports, are expected to become more competitive internationally due to the lower inspection rates.
In addition to the reduced inspection tariffs, Wigan announced that Kenyan flowers are now being exported to the UK tariff-free. This measure will be in place until June 30, 2026, aiming to further strengthen trade relations and economic partnerships between the UK and Kenya.
Wigan added, “Previously, flowers exported from Kenya to Britain through the EU faced a 10 percent duty. We’ve now removed this tariff for a two-year period. Discussions are ongoing with the CS and his team regarding future arrangements, and we’re already seeing positive impacts for exporters.”
