The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced that Djibouti has agreed to allow imports of Kenyan miraa into the country.
In a statement on Wednesday, July 23, AFA said the new development followed months of diplomatic and trade engagements between the two countries.
AFA said the deal stemmed from a Trade Mission to Djibouti in October 2024, and a return visit by a Djibouti delegation in November 2024.
"The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) wishes to notify the public and stakeholders of new export opportunities for Kenyan miraa (khat) to Djibouti, following successful trade engagements between the two nations.
"As a result of a Trade Mission to Djibouti in October 2024, and a reciprocal visit by a Djibouti delegation in November 2024, Djibouti has opened its market for Kenyan miraa, subject to regulatory compliance," the statement read.
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However, AFA has made it clear that only traders who meet strict export standards will be allowed to access the Djibouti market.
The agency said exporters must secure proper permits, meet product quality standards, and fulfill all local regulatory requirements.
"Exporters interested to access this market must comply with Djibouti's import regulations including obtaining necessary permits and adhering to product standards.
"Additionally, the traders must comply with requirements by relevant regulatory and government institutions in Kenya, to ensure smooth trade operations," the statement added.
AFA hailed the move as a major win for the miraa industry, especially as the country continues to seek alternative export markets.
"This new development marks a major milestone in diversifying Kenya's miraa export markets. The traders are encouraged to take advantage of this new commercial opportunity and link up with buyers in Djibouti for business engagements," the statement concluded.
This comes barely a month after AFA dismissed reports suggesting a ban on the export of fresh avocados, terming them as misleading.
In a statement released on Monday, July 7, AFA addressed growing concerns within the horticulture industry over rumors of a proposed ban on fresh avocado exports.
"Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) note with great concern that misleading information is being circulated among the horticulture industry stakeholders and members of the public, that during the meeting a proposal to ban export of fresh Avocado was discussed, which is not true,” he said.
AFA noted that not only does Kenya have no plans to halt fresh avocado exports, it is actively pursuing strategies to boost its export volumes and expand market destinations.
"The Authority therefore confirms that Kenya shall not only continue to export fresh Avocado but is working towards enhancing fresh Avocado export volumes and destinations,” he added.
