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Kenya has achieved low-risk classification under the European Union’s new deforestation regulations, a major relief for local exporters facing rising compliance costs. This classification was confirmed during a meeting between Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe and EU Ambassador Henriette Geiger, signaling Kenya’s strong environmental stewardship and commitment to sustainable agriculture.
With Kenya’s expanding tree cover—boosted by crops like avocado and coffee—the country is set to maintain its competitiveness in European markets despite the evolving regulatory landscape.
Agriculture stakeholders, including KEPHIS and the Coffee Directorate, emphasized the importance of supporting Kenya’s export-dependent sectors by easing compliance burdens. KEPHIS highlighted a significant reduction in rose flower interceptions in EU markets, thanks to the successful implementation of the False Codling Moth Systems Approach Protocol.
The agency is now advocating for a lower flower sampling rate—from the current 25% to a more cost-effective 5–10%—to help sustain Kenya’s leading position in the global floriculture industry, which ships over 60 million cut roses daily.
The EU confirmed Kenya’s favorable standing and pledged to maintain open consultations with partner countries to minimize unintended consequences of new environmental laws. Meanwhile, the government is championing organic alternatives like pyrethrum to align with pesticide regulations and promote green agriculture.
The Coffee Directorate is also advancing geo-mapping efforts to enhance traceability and compliance in international coffee trade. These collective efforts reflect Kenya’s proactive approach to meeting international standards while safeguarding farmer livelihoods and promoting fair trade.