Kenya has dispatched its first consignment of premium green coffee beans to Italy, marking a significant step in the country's efforts to expand exports to high-value international markets and boost returns for coffee farmers.
The first shipment, one of 20 containers bound for Italy's Port of Trieste, was dispatched by coffee exporter Sumseron Coffee in the presence of Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam and Principal Secretary for Cooperatives Patrick Kilemi.
According to the State Department for Trade, the shipment opens a new chapter for Kenyan coffee in Italy, Europe's third-largest coffee-consuming market, valued at approximately Sh500 billion.
Speaking during the dispatch, Ombam described the milestone as evidence of the resilience of Kenya's coffee sector and its continued ability to meet the quality standards required in premium international markets.
"This milestone is a testament to the resilience of Kenya's coffee sector and the country's unwavering commitment to producing high-quality products that meet international standards," she said.
The Principal Secretary reaffirmed the government's commitment to expanding market access for Kenyan coffee through strategic trade partnerships and efforts to diversify export destinations.
She said Kenya is pursuing new opportunities through the Early Harvest Arrangement with China while exploring additional markets in Japan, Algeria, Kazakhstan and other countries as part of a broader strategy to increase coffee exports.
Ombam said the government is leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to unlock new opportunities for coffee exports across the continent and strengthen regional trade.
According to the Trade Ministry, the shipment forms part of the government's efforts to find new international markets for Kenyan coffee and reduce reliance on traditional export destinations. Officials said expanding into premium markets is expected to increase demand for Kenyan coffee and help farmers earn better prices for their produce.
The ministry added that the shipment to Italy represents another milestone in Kenya's efforts to strengthen its global trade footprint and position its coffee among the world's leading premium products while creating greater economic opportunities across the coffee value chain.
