The United Kingdom has temporarily suspended its 8% duty on cut flower imports, making it cheaper and easier for East African countries to export their blooms.
“The suspension of eight per cent duty for cut flowers applies across the world but will be a big win for major flower growing regions in Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. The duty suspension will remain in place for two years from 11 April 2024 to 30 June 2026,” the British High Commission statement reads.
This move is expected to increase trade between the UK and East Africa, offering lower flower prices and more variety for UK consumers and boosting export revenue for Kenyan and other East African flower producers.
On the other hand, the suspension strengthens the UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership and the UK-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement.
“This additional flower power will allow trade to bloom. We go far when we go together…or in this case, we grow far when we grow together, further reinforcing the UK’s commitment to the expansion of trade in East Africa,” UK Trade Commissioner for Africa John Humphrey said.
Kenya is the world’s fourth-largest exporter of cut flowers, with a 6% global market share. The UK is a significant market for Kenyan flowers, with over £1.1 billion in trade in 2023.