Flower Exporters Lose Ksh 724 Million as Air Cargo Delays Disrupt European Shipments

Kenya’s flower export industry has suffered losses estimated at Ksh724.4 million over the past two months due to persistent air cargo disruptions that have delayed shipments to key European markets.

According to the Kenya Flower Council (KFC), late deliveries have resulted in flower spoilage, rejected consignments and downgraded shipments, significantly affecting exporters’ earnings.

KFC argued that the delays have also weakened the industry’s bargaining power in international markets, leading to lower prices for Kenyan flowers.

“The industry has already recorded losses estimated at over $5.6 million due to shipment delays, spoilage and reduced market prices,” said Kenya Flower Council Chief Executive Officer Clement Tulezi.

Flower Industry Loses Ksh 724.4 Million in Just Two Months

The Kenya Flower Council added that the cost of inputs such as fertilizer and fuel has increased by between 20 and 30 percent, placing additional pressure on growers.

Additionally , the council noted that the combined impact of higher operating expenses and logistical disruptions is threatening the competitiveness of one of Kenya’s leading export sectors.

The flower sector remains a key pillar of Kenya’s horticulture industry and a major source of foreign exchange earnings.

In 2023, Kenya’s horticulture exports were valued at Ksh153.7 billion, with flowers accounting for a significant share of the earnings.

Also Read: KNRA Sets 3 Requirements for Exporters and Cargo Agents

Meanwhile , Europe remains the primary destination for Kenyan flowers, with the Netherlands serving as the main entry point.

Other major markets include the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy and France.

Industry stakeholders say timely delivery is crucial because flowers are highly perishable products.

Therefore , any delay can lead to reduced quality and lower market value, especially when shipments miss auction schedules or arrive in poor condition.

Air Freight Costs Also Surge For Exporters

The council highlighted that exporters are also facing a sharp increase in air freight charges. According to KFC , freight rates that previously ranged between $2.50 and $3.10 per kilogramme for shipments from Nairobi to Europe have climbed to as much as $5.30 per kilogramme.

The increase represents a rise of up to 110%, depending on the airline and destination.

According to Tulezi, the surge has been driven largely by tensions in the Middle East, which have forced airlines to alter flight routes, reduce cargo capacity and avoid conflict-prone airspace.

Also Read:Government Responds to Claims That Donated Blood in Kenya Is Being Exported

Aircraft are increasingly taking longer routes through or around major Gulf transit hubs such as Dubai, Doha and parts of Saudi Arabia, increasing both transit times and operating costs.

Elsewhere ,Global logistics company DHL has also warned that geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt major cargo corridors between Asia and Europe.

The company noted that the situation has increased transit times and operational costs while ongoing cargo capacity shortages continue to keep freight rates elevated across Africa.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates.

Flower Exporters Count Losses Amid Shipping Crisis.Photo/ file