Kenya: Chemical ban reduces export to EU
The Fresh Produce Exporters Association of Kenya says only 4,000 tonnes of exports were received, 1,000 tonnes lower than normal.
More losses are anticipated after the EU rejected Kenya’s requests to lift the ban at least until May.
“Several companies and farmers were delisted. We exported only 4,000 tonnes, in January,” said chief executive Stephen Mbithi.
The association officials, together with those of other relevant agencies were this week in Brussels, to negotiate with the EU bureaucrats to accept the fresh produce.
While the meeting resolved to increase inspections within Kenya and at European entry points, the limits remained in force. The officials are expected back in Nairobi on Monday.
The EU regulation authorities had last year directed that Dimethoate, the banned chemical, should not exceed 0.02 parts per million.
The EU accounts for up to 80 per cent of Kenya’s fruit and vegetable sales.
Source: businessdailyafrica.com
