By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, 2 April 2026 - The Ministry of Trade has announced that the government is actively exploring new export markets across Asia and Central Africa due to the ongoing attacks in the Middle East.
The State Department for Trade Principal Secretary Regina Ombam said that the government is keen to expand markets to other countries, including Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and China.
According to the department, exporters of flowers, tea, coffee, and other fresh produce have already begun experiencing logistical challenges due to the instability in the region, which is one of the country’s key markets for these products.
Ombam is optimistic that the move will be fundamental in cushioning the country from economic shocks by reducing geographical overreliance, while also improving logistics, supply chain systems, and value addition.
The strategy was announced after the State Department for Trade Principal Secretary Regina Ombam held a meeting with key stakeholders in the private sector, including the Agriculture Sector Network and the leadership of the Kenya Flower Council, among others, on Wednesday, April 1.
“While the geopolitical situation has created logistical hurdles for perishable goods, specifically cut flowers, tea, coffee, and fresh produce, the government is committed to ensuring the continuity and growth of the country’s export sector,” a statement from the department read.
“The discussions focused on a multi-pronged approach to shield Kenyan exporters from regional volatility by diversifying into high-potential markets across Asia and Central Africa,” it added.
The PS said the Ministry will kickstart negotiations with these countries on new trade agreements to lower tariffs and address non-tariff barriers in the new markets.
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The U.S. and Israel launched an attack on 28 February 2026, against strategic targets in Tehran, which prompted Iran to begin retaliatory attacks, leading to the closure of key trade routes and airspaces in the Middle East countries.
Experts warn that if the situation doesn’t de-escalate, prolonged supply disruptions could prevail, pushing energy prices even higher and increasing the cost for businesses globally.
Since the conflict began, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said that the country is losing KSh 300 million weekly due to the disrupted flow of exports.
"There are also other markets that have arisen as a result of the situation, and we believe that we will be able to cater to other markets and replace those ones that are currently in conflict," Kagwe said during a press briefing on Thursday, 12 March 2026.
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, Kenya earned approximately KSh 164.65 billion ($1.12 billion) from exports to the Middle East in 2024, with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Iran being among the key export destinations.