rki.news
NAIROBI, March 26 — Kenya’s flower export industry has suffered losses of at least $4.8 million following the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East, according to the Kenya Flower Council.
Chief Executive Officer Clement Tulezi said the losses stem from disrupted global air cargo routes, which have increased freight costs and caused shipment delays. He noted that about $2.1 million worth of flowers perished before reaching markets, while $2.7 million was lost due to reduced prices linked to delayed deliveries and declining product quality.
Tulezi warned that farms heavily reliant on Middle Eastern markets have seen revenues drop by as much as 75 percent. If disruptions continue, weekly losses could exceed $1.3 million.
He emphasized that Gulf countries serve as vital transit hubs connecting Kenya to Europe and other global markets. Five Gulf states account for roughly 13.35 percent of export value, estimated at $722.9 million, with regional airlines playing a key role in transporting perishable goods.
Kenya earned $835 million from flower exports in 2024, supporting thousands of jobs now at risk.