The government has granted exclusive coffee export licenses to 10 companies in a bid to boost transparency and improve farmer earnings in Kenya’s lucrative coffee sector.
In a gazette notice dated August 22, the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) announced the move, citing provisions of the Crops Act No. 16 of 2023. The licensing initiative marks a key step in ongoing reforms aimed at streamlining the industry and eliminating exploitative middlemen who have long dominated coffee trade.
Under the new arrangement, seven companies have been cleared to import, roast, and package coffee specifically for export markets. The remaining three will focus on facilitating direct sales of green coffee to international buyers. According to AFA, this split mandate is designed to promote specialization, thereby enhancing efficiency within the export pipeline.
“The goal is to ensure farmers earn more from their produce by engaging directly with global buyers and value-addition companies,” the authority stated.
In line with public participation requirements, AFA has invited stakeholders to submit feedback on the proposed licenses within 14 days of the notice. The deadline for objections and consultations is August 30, 2025, after which final decisions will be made. Stakeholders have been urged to provide substantive reasons should they oppose the issuance of any license.
Kenya’s coffee sector has demonstrated resilience in recent years despite global price fluctuations. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), coffee exports in 2024 rose by 12 per cent to 53,519 tonnes, up from 47,861 tonnes in 2023. Most exports occurred in the second and third quarters, with 15,903 tonnes and 17,017 tonnes shipped respectively.
Revenue from the sector has also seen a sharp uptick. Coffee export earnings jumped to Ksh38.4 billion in 2024, compared to Ksh32.4 billion in 2023. Analysts attribute this growth to improved international demand and higher volumes reaching overseas markets.
With the reforms now underway, the government hopes that direct licensing will ensure farmers reap greater benefits, strengthen Kenya’s global coffee brand, and position the sector for sustainable long-term growth.
