Kenya issues directive on fresh produce exports to EU market

All fresh produce exporters to the European Union and other markets must now have internationally recognised phytosanitary certificates. [PHOTO:FILE/STANDARD]

NAIROBI, KENYA: Government wants cargo airlines to stop loading agricultural produce to the European Union (EU) and other export market destinations that is not accompanied by phytosanitary certificates.

Further, it has directed clearing and forwarding firms, Kenya Revenue Authority’s customs department and pack house managers to only clear fresh produce exports that have met all the outlined certification requirements.

Agriculture Principal Secretary Sicily Kariuki stated that the new measures follow the feedback Kenya has been receiving from the EU on all fresh produce exports.

Five commodities from Kenya have been under close monitoring by both the Government and the EU following rising cases of fresh produce with high Maximum Residual Levels (MRLs) being exported.

The commodities include fruits, flowers and mangoes.

Kariuki, who was speaking during a workshop at the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) headquarters, said inspection and system audits have been increased both at farm level and at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

She said even though the number of interceptions have dropped since Government initiated new measures several months ago, there is still need for monitoring of all the consignments being shipped to the EU and other markets.

NONCONFORMITY

“I wish to bring to your attention certain actions that are expected and that have already been communicated to you in various forums. The department notes the increased trend of document non-conformity and has therefore directed that all agricultural produce being exported should have a phytosanitary certificate even if the destination does not require it,” said Kariuki.

She added that the information has been relayed to the airlines and the Customs office and the ministry is seeking the co-operation of the exporters.

“The regulatory authorities have been instructed to work closely with police, customs, clearing agents to enforce this new directive,” Kariuki added.

She explained that intensive training to personnel both in regulatory bodies and exporting companies responsible for inputting data during application for export certifications has been initiated.

Others measures include controlling exporters who have not regularised registration with Horticulture Crops Directorate and those whose products are non-compliant and outlawing disputed chemicals.

KEPHIS acting boss Dr Esther Kimani said the organisation has been carrying out risk profiles of all exporters to enhance compliance with produce safety laws.

Related Topics

EU MRLs KEPHIS