Full Breakdown
Impact of the Iran War on Kenya's Flower Industry
3/26/2026, 6:28:31 AM
Financial Losses and Shipping Disruptions
Kenya's flower industry is experiencing significant financial strain, reporting losses of up to $1.4 million weekly since the onset of the US-Israeli war on Iran. The Kenya Flower Council, which represents growers and exporters of cut flowers and ornamentals, has indicated that the conflict has led to over $4.2 million in losses over the past three weeks. The disruptions are attributed to a decline in demand and significant shipping challenges, particularly affecting exports to the Middle East and Europe.
Clement Tulezi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Flower Council, noted, “We are seeing a reduction in movement, delays in movement of produce, and longer routes, while pricing is extremely high. Last week, we were at $5.80 per kilo, which is the highest we’ve had in the last 10 years.” The horticulture sector, a vital component of Kenya's economy valued at over $800 million annually, is facing unprecedented challenges.
Decline in Export Volumes
At Isinya Flower Farms, located 56 kilometers south of Nairobi, the situation is dire. Marketing Manager Anantha Kumar reported that exports have plummeted by more than half, stating, “Previously, we used to export 450,000 stems per day, and currently we are doing about 150,000 to 200,000 stems a day. So we are discarding almost 50 percent.” This decline is particularly concerning as direct flower exports to the Middle East typically account for about 30% of Isinya's business.
The conflict has also disrupted cargo freight to Europe, which is the largest market for Kenyan flowers, comprising up to 70% of exports. Kumar explained that the limited availability of freights, particularly as Middle Eastern carriers have ceased operations, has exacerbated the situation. European carriers are charging about $5 per kilo, double the normal rate, further complicating the ability of growers to maintain sales.
Potential Long-Term Consequences
Experts warn that if the conflict continues, the flower sector may face a deterioration reminiscent of the challenges experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Kenya Flower Council has raised concerns about potential job losses in an industry that employs up to half a million Kenyans directly. In response to these challenges, the Council is lobbying the Kenyan government to introduce direct cargo flights to Europe to sustain the market and support growers.
Official Statements & Responses
The Kenya Flower Council has emphasized the urgent need for government intervention to mitigate the impact of the ongoing conflict on the flower industry. The Council's efforts aim to secure direct cargo flights to Europe, which could help stabilize the market and reduce the financial burden on growers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are seeing a reduction in movement, delays in movement of produce, and longer routes, while pricing is extremely high.” — Clement Tulezi, CEO, Kenya Flower Council
- “Previously, we used to export 450,000 stems per day, and currently we are doing about 150,000 to 200,000 stems a day.” — Anantha Kumar, Marketing Manager, Isinya Flower Farms
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to pose significant challenges for Kenya's flower industry, with implications that could extend beyond immediate financial losses.
