Kenyan Tea Export Surges Amid Shipping Crisis

In 2025, Kenya's tea export earnings rose by 2.87% to 186.91 billion Kenyan shillings, despite facing shipping disruptions due to the Iran conflict. The industry's growth was driven by increased export volumes, though millions of kilograms remain stuck in Mombasa. Kenya sold tea to 100 global destinations.

Kenya's tea export industry saw a notable increase in earnings for 2025, rising by 2.87% to reach 186.91 billion Kenyan shillings, equivalent to $1.44 billion. This growth was primarily driven by increased volumes, an industry body reported on Thursday.

However, the future profitability of this sector, crucial to Kenya's economy alongside coffee and flowers, is at risk. A disruption in shipping routes linked to the Iran conflict has caused significant delays, leaving approximately eight million kilograms of tea stuck in Mombasa warehouses.

The Tea Board of Kenya noted that overall export volume increased by 9.81% to 652.80 million kilograms, aided by unsold stock from previous years. The nation broadened its export destinations from 96 to 100, with major markets including Pakistan, Egypt, the UK, the UAE, and Russia.

(With inputs from agencies.)