From air to sea: How Kenya, the Netherlands plan to keep flowers moving

Flowers sold at City Market, Nairobi. February 13, 2025. [Elvis Ogina, Standard].

Recent news reports have indicated that Kenya’s flower exports have dipped — not because of fading demand, but because of a shortage in air freight capacity. The message is clear: It’s time to rethink how we move our blooms. Shifting toward rail and sea transport isn’t just a greener alternative; it’s also more cost-effective. The Netherlands and Kenya are already rolling up their sleeves to build up and develop this “cool logistics” chain — one that keeps products fresh throughout transit.

The flower trade between Kenya and the Netherlands is one of the strongest and most influential partnerships in global horticulture. Kenya ranks among the world’s top flower exporters, particularly of roses, while the Netherlands remains the world’s largest flower importer. Together, the two countries form the beating heart of the international flower market — a bond celebrated earlier this year when King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima visited a flower farm and the Inland Container Depot in Naivasha.

But the industry faces turbulence. Air carriers have shifted capacity toward more lucrative routes, while instability in the Red Sea disrupts sea freight. Quick fixes don’t exist, but waiting isn’t an option either.

The Netherlands believes firmly in sea freight as a sustainable, long-term solution. With growing export volumes of flowers — and avocados — sea freight is becoming increasingly viable. To unlock this potential, developing reliable transport corridors in and beyond Kenya is vital.

Investing in cold chain infrastructure and logistics not only strengthens agri-trade but also boosts food security and supports smallholder farmers. That’s why the Netherlands is spearheading bankable projects in port development, cold storage, and consolidation centres.

In the short term, however, air freight remains necessary. Allowing additional cargo flights during peak seasons could help the industry seize high market demand.

Yet, transport isn’t the only hurdle. Business climate and phytosanitary policies continue to put pressure on the sector — one that operates 24/7 and sustains hundreds of thousands of jobs. While private investors expand flower farms, diversify beyond roses, and embed sustainability, government action must keep pace. Improving the business environment and supporting smaller entrants into the sector will help diversify and future-proof the industry. 

The flower trade’s future extends well beyond Europe. Emerging markets in Asia and the Middle East are blossoming with opportunity for Kenyan exporters. For Kenya, success depends on innovation, reliability, and maintaining its reputation as an attractive place to do business.

With decades of experience in horticulture, logistics, and sustainable trade, the Netherlands remains a steadfast partner. The next chapter of this success story depends on collaboration. From government agencies and transport firms to growers and service providers — it’s time to bring everyone to the same table, identify the bottlenecks, and tackle them together. Because the flower trade will bloom if we choose to make it grow.

Mr Henk is ambassador of the Netherlands to Kenya. [e-mail]