Kenyan Roses Dominate European Market Raking in Ksh92B

Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry Lee Kinyanjui has highlighted Kenya’s strong position in the global flower market as the world marked Valentine’s Day on February 14.

In a statement shared on his X account on Saturday, Kinyanjui noted that the day continues to grow in popularity across the world as more people embrace the culture of gifting and celebrating their loved ones.

“The world marks Valentine’s Day every 14 February. With a growing culture of gifting and celebrating loved ones, the day has steadily grown in popularity,” he stated.

He said that for many people, a red rose remains the ultimate symbol of love during the celebrations, adding that Kenya plays a major role in supplying the global market.

“For Valentine’s Day, a red rose is a must. Kenya is the fourth largest producer of roses globally after the Netherlands, Colombia, and Ecuador,” he said.

According to data from the International Trade Centre, Kenya earned Ksh 92 billion, equivalent to USD 722.9 million, from cut flower exports in 2024, ranking the country fourth globally. In Europe, Kenyan flowers account for over 38 per cent of all flowers sold.

“Data from the International Trade Centre shows that in 2024, the sector generated Ksh 92 billion in cut flower export earnings, ranking Kenya fourth globally. In Europe, Kenyan flowers account for over 38 per cent of all flowers sold. This is no mean achievement,” Kinyanjui noted.

He added that the success of the industry goes beyond export numbers, as it directly supports thousands of livelihoods across the country.

“Every rose bought directly supports hundreds of workers who carefully tend the crop year-round,” he said.

Most of Kenya’s flowers are grown in areas such as Naivasha, Nakuru, Thika, and around Mount Kenya, where favourable weather allows for consistent production throughout the year.

“With Kenya’s favourable climate, skilled manpower, and efficient logistics, the future of our floriculture sector remains promising. Happy Valentine’s Day,” Kinyanjui stated.

The floriculture sector remains one of Kenya’s top foreign exchange earners and continues to play a key role in supporting jobs, boosting exports, and strengthening the country’s economy.