Kenya has officially started exporting Petunia spp. and Calibrachoa spp. to the European Union (EU) following the lifting of long-standing trade restrictions, marking a major milestone for the country’s floriculture sector.
For decades, Kenya was barred from sending these ornamental plants to the EU due to concerns over virus transmission from high-value Solanaceae crops such as potatoes, tomatoes, and capsicum. The barrier was removed after the EU published Regulation 2025/1082 in June 2024, approving the export of unrooted Petunia and Calibrachoa cuttings, including hybrids, to all member states.
On 1 November 2025, Savanna Flowers PLC, based in Naivasha, shipped Kenya’s first consignment of unrooted cuttings to the EU. These plants are highly valued in temperate regions—including Europe, Japan, Russia, and North America—for their vibrant colors, drought tolerance, and ease of cultivation in gardens and landscapes.
KEPHIS Managing Director Prof. Theophilus Mutui highlighted the agency’s ongoing role in inspections, certification, and laboratory diagnostics to ensure compliance with EU phytosanitary standards. He stressed that adherence to these standards is crucial for maintaining market access and enhancing Kenya’s reputation as a reliable exporter.
The export breakthrough is expected to boost Kenya’s horticulture industry, increase export revenues, expand production capacity, and create new employment opportunities. It also strengthens the country’s position in the global floriculture market, allowing growers to diversify their exports and meet growing international demand for ornamental plants.
