The UK has decided to temporarily remove export tariffs for cut flowers, with the aim of making trade easier and cheaper for growers in East Africa and beyond.
Unlimited quantities of flowers can now be exported to the UK at 0% tariff, even if they transit via a third country. This is particularly important for East African flower growers who transport their blooms via third-countries or auction houses, such as those in the Netherlands, before they arrive in the UK.
The move is intended to increase trade and further strengthen the economic relationship between the UK and the region while helping UK consumers on price, seasonality and variety.
The suspension of 8% duty for cut flowers applies across the world but will be most appreciated by major flower growing regions in Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda. The duty suspension will remain in place for two years from 11 April 2024 to 30 June 2026.
HM Trade Commissioner for Africa, John Humphrey, said: “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.”
In 2022, Kenya was ranked as the fourth biggest exporter of cut-flowers in the world, with 6% of global exports in this sector. Ethiopia is the second largest cut flower producer in Africa, making up 23% of Sub-Saharan African exports.
In 2023, the value of trade in cut flowers sent from Ethiopia to the UK was valued at £12.6 million, Rwanda at £727,000, £839,000 from Tanzania and £1.1 million from Uganda.
