United Kingdom has suspended export tariffs for cut flowers for East African countries, reducing shipping costs significantly.

The announcement was made in a joint statement from British High Commission in Nairobi, Kampala, Rwanda, Addis Ababa, Dar es Salaam and Kigali.

Starting today (Thursday, April 11), unlimited amount of cut flowers can be exported to the U.K at 0% tariffs even for those who do so via third countries.

“This is particularly important for East African flower growers who transport their blooms via third-countries or auction houses before they arrive in the UK,” read part of the statement.

John Humphrey, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, noted that this is aimed at strengthening trade relations between the U.K and East Africa.

“The UK’s relationship with East Africa is rooted in mutually beneficial trade. This additional flower power will allow trade to bloom. 

“We go far when we go together… or in this case, we grow far when we grow together, further reinforcing the UK’s commitment to the expansion of trade in East Africa,” Humphrey added.

Suspension of the 8% export tariff cuts across the world, although it is seen as a major win for East African countries.

Ethiopia is ranked as the second largest exporter of cut flowers in Africa.

In 2022, Kenya was ranked as the fourth biggest flower exporter in the world, supplying about 6% of the world’s flower exports.

By the end of 2023, Kenya’s general exports to the U.K amounted to £ 1.4 billion (KSh227.5 billion).