Kenyan Coffee Makes Historic Entry into Italian Market as First 20-Container Shipment Departs
By Shadrack Mutai | NAIROBI,
Kenya has marked a major milestone in expanding its global coffee market following the official dispatch of the first of 20 containers of premium Kenyan green coffee beans to Trieste Port in Italy.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) President Dr. Erick Ruto described the shipment as a landmark achievement that demonstrates the impact of collaboration between the Government of Kenya, KNCCI, the Italian Government, and private sector players in unlocking new export opportunities for Kenyan farmers.
Dr. Ruto said the inaugural consignment, exported by Sumseron Coffee, a KNCCI member, signals the beginning of stronger trade ties with one of Europe’s largest coffee markets.
“It is a proud moment for Kenya. This shipment is more than a consignment of coffee; it is a gateway to greater prosperity for our coffee farmers, exporters and the country’s economy. It reflects what can be achieved through strategic partnerships and a shared commitment to growing Kenya’s exports,” he said.
According to Dr. Ruto, Italy is Europe’s third-largest coffee consumer, with a market estimated at KES 500 billion, offering significant opportunities for Kenyan coffee producers. He noted that the first shipment fetched a premium price of more than USD 9.50 per kilogram, underscoring the international demand for Kenya’s high-quality coffee.
He added that securing access to the Italian market will contribute to the country’s ambition of increasing coffee production from the current 50,000 tonnes to 150,000 tonnes by 2029, while also creating a pathway into the wider European Union market, valued at over KES 6 trillion.
To enhance the competitiveness of Kenyan exporters, Dr. Ruto said KNCCI has trained 200 coffee cooperatives on fair labour practices, international market requirements and global branding. The Chamber has also developed a Sector-Wide Impact Assessment (SWIA) report to help exporters comply with European market standards.
Dr. Ruto commended the Government of Kenya, the Italian Government and all stakeholders involved in facilitating the historic export, saying the partnership will strengthen Kenya’s position as a leading supplier of premium coffee in international markets while improving incomes for local farmers and supporting economic growth.
