“We want to assure the European Union that Kenya is taking the necessary steps to ensure that no False Codling Moth is ever detected in our flowers again.”
– Hon. Mutahi Kagwe, CS, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.
By Mary Mwende,
Kenya’s flower industry is facing a significant shift as the European Union (EU) introduces new regulations aimed at safeguarding its agricultural sector. These changes, set to take effect on April 26, 2025, will require Kenyan flower growers to meet stricter pest control and phytosanitary standards, particularly targeting the False Codling Moth (FCM), a pest that has plagued Kenya’s rose exports and now threatens to disrupt market access if not effectively managed.
The EU’s Stricter Standards
To prevent the spread of invasive pests and diseases, the EU enacted Regulation (EU) 2024/2004, mandating tougher import conditions for fresh-cut flowers. Roses, which form the bulk of Kenya’s flower exports to the EU, will now be subjected to increased inspection rates, rising from 5% to 25%, starting in 2025.
The trigger for these heightened controls was a 2023 study by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which confirmed that fresh-cut roses pose a risk of introducing FCM into the EU. This pest, endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, is known to infest not only flowers but also a range of crops, including citrus, avocado, and vegetables.
The EU’s concern is not unfounded. In 2024 alone, Kenya recorded 95 rejected consignments and 48 interceptions of flower exports due to the detection of FCM. These incidents involved over 2.1 million stems, valued at approximately €1.05 million, a sobering figure that underscores the potential financial impact if the industry fails to adapt.
Kenya’s Response: The Systems Approach
In response, Kenya has taken decisive action through the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) and other competent authorities, including KALRO, the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), and the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA). The country has committed to a zero-tolerance policy on FCM, pledging 100% compliance with EU regulations.
To meet this goal, Kenya is implementing the Rose False Codling Moth Systems Approach (Rose FCMSA), a comprehensive pest management strategy approved by the EU. This includes:
- Submission of the FCM Systems Approach Protocol to the EU, detailing Kenya’s pest management processes.
- Provision of evidence demonstrating the efficacy of the systems approach in managing FCM at production sites.
- Registration and approval of 134 production sites, each assigned a unique traceability code in case of non-conformity.
Furthermore, capacity-building is well underway. The ministry has trained 475 agro-attendants and 849 additional staff across the floriculture value chain to align operations with the new requirements.
The PCPB is also actively registering pest control products proven effective against FCM, ensuring growers have access to approved tools for integrated pest management.
The Countdown to Compliance
With the compliance deadline drawing closer, flower exporters are intensifying their preparations. Growers are being urged to review and upgrade pest management protocols, seek certification, and maintain full documentation of pre- and post-harvest practices.
KEPHIS will continue to play a leading role in inspections, certification, and monitoring, ensuring all flowers meet the EU’s rigorous entry standards. Failure to comply could result not only in rejected shipments but also in long-term market exclusion, posing a serious risk to the sector.
Safeguarding a Key Economic Pillar
Flowers remain Kenya’s top horticultural export in terms of value. In 2024, the country exported 102,475.80 tonnes of flowers valued at Ksh 72.1 billion, representing 53% of total horticultural export earnings. Losing access to the EU, Kenya’s leading flower market, would be a devastating blow to growers, exporters, and the national economy at large.
Recognizing this, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Sen. Mutahi Kagwe has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to compliance and quality. In a recent statement, he assured the EU that Kenya’s flower exports would meet the highest standards and that “no FCM will ever be detected in our flowers again.”
Sustainability and Market Expansion
While regulatory compliance is the immediate focus, the industry is also looking to the future. With European consumers placing growing emphasis on sustainability, Kenya has an opportunity to differentiate itself by embracing eco-friendly production methods. This includes environmentally safe pest control, responsible water usage, and reducing chemical residues.
At the same time, Kenya is seeking to expand its market share, particularly in Italy. A 3% growth target over the next five years for flower exports to Italy is already in place, aimed at diversifying destinations and cushioning the industry against potential regulatory shocks.
What Does This Mean to the Grower?
For the grower, April 26 isn’t just a regulatory deadline; It could make or break market access. The new EU rules demand more than business as usual. They require every grower to adopt strict pest management systems, keep detailed records of crop treatment, and meet traceability standards that can withstand EU scrutiny.
This means reviewing current practices, training staff, investing in FCM control measures, and working closely with KEPHIS to ensure every shipment is fully compliant. The costs and effort may be high, but the risk of non-compliance is even higher: loss of access to the EU market, reputational damage, and revenue losses.
At the same time, growers who adapt now are positioning themselves for long-term success. By meeting the EU’s stringent standards, they not only secure access to a premium market but also build a more resilient, high-quality, and sustainable operation that can thrive beyond April 26.