Good News for Farmers as Kenya, Israel Remove Trade Barriers

 President William Ruto has struck a deal to export tea, coffee, avocado and pineapple to Israel starting June this year.

This development comes after the head of state concluded a two-day official visit to Israel on Wednesday. While attending the Israel Investor Roundtable Forum in Tel Aviv, the head of state communicated the good news that Kenya will export to Israel the same products they have been exporting to Europe. Based on Ruto's assertions, starting June 5, Kenya will suffice Israel's need for premium coffee and tea, replacing blended tea and coffee in the country. 

 "Kenya supplies the best tea and coffee in the world. Kenyan tea is used to blend teas from other countries to [add] flavour. Instead of buying blended tea or coffee, Kenya is ready to supply Israel with premium tea and coffee at the same price you buy second or even third-class tea elsewhere," President Ruto said while addressing Israeli investors. 

According to Tea Board of Kenya data, Kenya's tea earnings levitated to Sh138 billion from Sh136 billion in 2021. The Directorate of Horticulture reported that Kenya's avocado exports to China increased to Sh7 billion. The Israel-Kenya partnership is expected to increase income for local farmers. 

Kenya blamed the lack of direct flights for the country's poor balance of trade with Israel. He divulged that talks are underway to review the Kenya Airways and El-Al bilateral air services agreement.