Agriculture
Agriculture is the backbone of the Kenyan Economy contributing about 24% of the GDP. The following are some of the agricultural produce.
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Tea
Kenya is the largest producer of tea in Africa. Renowned for its brisk flavor and delicate fragrance, Kenyan tea is the nation’s biggest foreign exchange earner. 2011 earnings from this top beverage amounted to $1.3 billion. Kenya exports to 54 destinations, with key markets in Egypt, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Sudan. Opportunities exist to increase exports to emerging markets in Europe, Russia and Bangladesh among others. Increased local consumption also presents opportunities for expansion of domestic markets. |
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Coffee
With a distinctly bold flavor, smooth acidity and mellow wine-like aftertaste, Kenyan coffee is unforgettable. Kenya is a leading global exporter of premium Arabica coffee. According to Coffee Board of Kenya, 2011 earnings amounted to $277.7 million. Major markets include Germany, USA, Canada, Sweden, Finland, UK and Saudi Arabia. Investment opportunities include processing instant coffee, value addition in processing and packaging of final products, promoting Kenyan coffee in international markets, and micro financing for smallholder farmers. |
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Cut-flowers
In 2010 the floriculture industry accounted for $670 million in exports. Farmers mainly exported roses, hypericum and carnations. Opportunities exist to diversify types of flowers and increase shelf life. Other markets to be tapped into are Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Slovenia. |
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Pyrethrum
Kenya is the world’s largest producer of pyrethrum with well established markets in Europe, US and Asia. Pyrethrum products from Kenya are of high quality and in great demand in the world market. For the country, Pyrethrum is an important foreign exchange earner. Kenya is an ideal investment location for the pyrethrum industry as supported by various investor friendly factors that include:
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Vegetables/Fruits
In 2010, the ever growing fruit and vegetable sector generated $490 million from the export of fresh beans, peas, brussel sprouts, broccoli, courgettes and baby carrots. Fruit exports included mangoes and avocado. Europe has been the traditional market for these products; |