The United Kingdom has temporarily removed tariffs on cut flowers that it imports from East African countries. Starting April 11, 2024, unlimited quantities of cut flowers can be exported to the UK at a duty rate of zero percent regardless of whether they transit through a third country.
This suspension of the eight percent tariff is expected to provide significant benefits to major flower growing regions in East Africa such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda.
"It allows for unlimited quantities of flowers to enter the UK, particularly if they transit through a third country or the flower auctions in the Netherlands – where previously an eight percent UKGT would apply," reads a statement published on the official website of the UK government.
Many East African flower farmers transport their blooms via third countries or auction houses before shipping to the UK.
The zero-tariff policy will remain in place until June 30, 2026. UK officials hope it will increase trade volumes and deepen the economic relationship between Britain and the East African region.
"The UK’s relationship with East Africa is rooted in mutually beneficial trade. This additional flower power will allow trade to bloom,” Trade Commissioner for Africa, John Humphrey said.
As one of the world's leading cut flower exporters, Kenya is poised to take advantage of the new policy. Ethiopia, East Africa's second largest producer, also stands to gain meaningfully.
In 2023, the UK imported over 12 million UK pounds worth of cut flowers from Ethiopia alone. Officials say removing barriers to trade will allow business to "bloom" between both sides.
