How to Export Mange Tout and Mishiri from Kenya to Europe: Complete First-Time Exporter’s Guide
Learn how to export Mange Tout and Mishiri from Kenya to the UK, France, Netherlands, and Belgium. This complete first-time exporter’s guide covers buyers, requirements, costs, and the export process.
Exporting vegetables from Kenya to international markets is a proven path to profit. Kenya is a leading exporter of vegetables to the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. The country’s climate allows year-round production of high-quality vegetables that European buyers actively seek. Among the most sought-after exports are Mange Tout and Mishiri.
Mange Tout is the internationally recognized name for what Kenyans locally call Snow Peas. Mishiri is the local Kenyan name for French Beans. These vegetables are highly perishable and require careful planning, but the returns make the effort worthwhile.
This guide by Farmers Trend Limited explains everything you need to know about exporting Mange Tout and Mishiri from Kenya for the first time. It covers finding buyers, meeting export requirements, handling the logistics, and ensuring your consignment arrives in perfect condition. Whether you are a smallholder farmer or an established agribusiness, this guide provides the practical knowledge you need to enter the lucrative European vegetable export market.
Exporting is not a simple process. Many first-time exporters lose money because they underestimate the complexity. The vegetables are perishable, the timelines are tight, and the buyers are demanding. But with proper preparation, the rewards are substantial. This guide draws on the practical experience of Kenyan exporters who have successfully navigated this process.
Can You Export Vegetables from Kenya to Europe?
Yes. Kenya exports large volumes of vegetables to Europe every year. The United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium are major destinations for Kenyan horticultural produce. European buyers know Kenya for its quality vegetables and reliable supply. Once you obtain your export license, the process becomes easier because buyers already trust Kenyan produce.
Kenya’s vegetable exports to Europe have grown steadily over the years. The country is among the top suppliers of fresh vegetables to the European market. Mange Tout and Mishiri are particularly popular because they are available in Kenya when European production is low due to cold weather. The European winter months create a supply gap that Kenyan farmers can fill profitably.
The demand for Kenyan vegetables in Europe is driven by several factors. European consumers prefer fresh, high-quality vegetables that are available year-round. Kenyan produce is known for its superior quality, fresh taste, and consistent supply. The country’s diverse climate allows production of vegetables that are out of season in Europe. This creates a reliable market for Kenyan exporters who can deliver quality produce consistently.
Understanding the Difference: Mange Tout and Mishiri
One of the most common sources of confusion for first-time exporters is understanding the difference between these products. Both are exported in large volumes, but they are distinct products with different market requirements. Confusing them will lead to rejected shipments.
Mange Tout
Mange Tout is the internationally recognized name for the vegetable that Kenyans locally call Snow Peas. The name comes from French, meaning “eat all” because the entire pod is consumed. Mange Tout has flat, tender pods that are eaten whole. The pods are crisp and have a delicate sweetness. They are used in salads, stir-fries, and as a side dish.
Specifications for Mange Tout include flat pods with no visible seeds inside. The pods should be tender and snap when bent. The length should be between 5 and 10 centimetres. The colour should be bright green with no yellowing or blemishes. There should be no pest damage or physical marks. Freshness must be maintained through proper cold chain management. Kenyan farmers in high-altitude areas such as Nyandarua, Meru, and parts of the Rift Valley successfully grow Mange Tout for export.
Mishiri
Mishiri is the local Kenyan name for French Beans. This is a completely different product from Mange Tout. French Beans are long, slender, round pods that are eaten whole. They are green, crisp, and have a distinct flavour. French Beans are used in salads, stews, and as a side dish.
Specifications for Mishiri include straight, slender pods with no bulges. The length should be between 8 and 12 centimetres. The diameter should be between 4 and 6 millimetres. The colour should be bright green with no yellowing or blemishes. There should be no pest damage or physical marks. Freshness must be maintained through proper cold chain management.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Mange Tout (Snow Peas) | Mishiri (French Beans) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Name in Kenya | Snow Peas | French Beans |
| Pod Type | Flat | Round |
| Pod Shape | Broad, flat | Long, slender |
| Seeds Visible | No visible seeds | No visible seeds |
| Length | 5-10 cm | 8-12 cm |
| Diameter | Flat | 4-6 mm |
| Colour | Bright green | Bright green |
| Taste | Sweet, delicate | Crisp, distinct |
| Use | Salads, stir-fries | Salads, stews |
What Do European Buyers Look For?
Quality and Freshness
European buyers demand high-quality vegetables. Your Mange Tout and Mishiri must be fresh, properly graded, and free from blemishes. Buyers inspect every shipment and reject produce that does not meet their specifications. This means you must maintain strict quality control from harvest to delivery.
Mange Tout should have pods that are flat, tender, and bright green. The pods should snap when bent, indicating freshness. Mishiri should have straight, slender pods that are crisp and bright green. Any yellowing, wilting, or pest damage will result in rejection. The produce must be harvested at the right time and handled carefully to maintain quality.
What buyers commonly complain about first is inconsistency. They receive a shipment where some pods are too long, others are too short, and some are yellowing. They also complain about packaging that does not protect the produce properly. These problems lead to immediate rejection.
Food Safety and Certification
Food safety is the number one priority for European buyers. The European Union has set maximum residue levels for pesticides in and on food products. Products containing more pesticides than recommended levels are rejected in the market. Buyers in the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria use MRLs which are stricter than those laid down in European legislation.
To achieve extra high quality and safety standards, producers are advised to apply Integrated Pest Management which can considerably reduce the amount of pesticides. It involves use of natural pest control practices such as the application of pests’ natural enemies. The fewer chemicals you use, the better your selling point.
GlobalGAP certification is essential for accessing European markets. HACCP certification is also required by many buyers. Buyers may request samples before placing large orders. Maintain good hygiene practices during production to avoid microbiological contamination. Your produce should be free of substances such as salmonella and E.coli.
Phytosanitary Compliance
Phytosanitary certificates are required for all plant products entering Europe. These certificates prove that KEPHIS inspected the product and found it free from quarantine pests. Without this certificate, your consignment will be stopped at the port. The European Union has laid down phytosanitary requirements to prevent the introduction and the spread of organisms harmful to plants and plant products in Europe.
Equally, the pods or seeds must be fresh and intact. The produce must be practically free of pests or damage caused by pests and free of any foreign smell and/or taste. The phytosanitary certificate is a critical document that must be obtained before shipping.
Traceability
European buyers demand traceability. They want to know exactly where the produce came from, when it was harvested, and how it was handled. This is mandatory and requires detailed farm records. The Horticultural Crops Directorate requires exporters to maintain produce traceability records.
Traceability systems allow buyers to track the produce from farm to table. This is important for food safety and quality assurance. If there is a problem with a shipment, the buyer can identify the source and take corrective action.
Packaging Specifications
Buyers are specific about packaging. Your vegetables must be packed in approved cartons with proper labelling. The packaging must protect the produce during transit and maintain its freshness. Temperature control is critical for perishable vegetables.
Packaging materials shall be kept off the floor in a clean dry storage area that is free from the risk of contamination. The packaging material for horticultural produce shall be designed to suit the transport handling system and shall meet market requirements. Proper packaging prevents damage during transport and maintains the quality of the produce.
One common packaging mistake is overfilling cartons. This crushes the produce at the bottom of the carton. Another mistake is using cartons that are too large, allowing the produce to move during transport. Both mistakes lead to damaged produce and rejected shipments.
Direct Export vs Contract Exporter
| Factor | Direct Export | Contract Exporter |
|---|---|---|
| Capital Requirement | High (you cover all costs) | Low (company covers costs) |
| Risk | High (you bear all risk) | Low (company bears risk) |
| Profit Potential | Higher (you keep all profit) | Lower (company takes margin) |
| Control | Full control | Limited control |
| Buyer Relationships | You build them | Company owns them |
| Certifications | You must obtain them | Company provides them |
| Logistics | You must manage | Company manages |
| Best For | Experienced exporters | First-time exporters |
Many first-time exporters start by working with a contract exporter. This reduces the risk and allows you to learn the process without the capital investment. Once you understand the process, you can consider exporting directly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering as an Exporter
Before you can export Mange Tout and Mishiri, you must register as an exporter with the relevant Kenyan authorities. Here is the complete process.
Step 1: Obtain an HCD Export License
You must apply to the Horticultural Crops Directorate for an export license. The application requires a copy of the certificate of incorporation for local companies, a copy of the certificate of compliance for a branch of a foreign company, the Kenya Revenue Authority PIN certificate for the company, a valid tax compliance certificate from the Kenya Revenue Authority, a copy of a valid business permit, copies of the identity cards or passports of the directors, produce traceability records, contracts from contracted produce sources, and documents indicating that the applicant operates from a registered packing facility.
The Authority will inspect the farm where the horticultural produce is grown and issue a farm inspection report if the inspected farm complies with good agricultural practices. They will also inspect the pack house facility and issue a pack house inspection report if the facility has complied with food safety requirements. The export license costs KES 5,000 per year and is valid from July to June of the following calendar year.
Step 2: Register with KEPHIS
You must register your farm and facilities with KEPHIS through the Integrated Export Import Certification System. The process requires a written request to the Managing Director of KEPHIS, accompanied by a Horticultural Crops Directorate export licence, a company registration certificate, a Kenya Revenue Authority PIN, and identification documents of company directors.
Exporters sourcing from farmers or other authorized exporters are also required to present signed contracts or agreements, alongside details of farm locations, acreage, crops under production, and target markets. Upon receipt of the applications, a system audit shall be conducted within ten working days.
Step 3: Undergo the System Audit
For growers of perishable agricultural products, the audit process is comprehensive and detailed. It begins with the auditee demonstrating a thorough understanding of market requirements, backed by documentary evidence. This is followed by an audit of documented policies and procedures, covering essential areas such as farmer recruitment, calibration of spray equipment, traceability, internal audits, pest management, safety and hygiene of both produce and handlers, as well as waste disposal.
Auditors also verify that these documented policies are actively practiced across contracted farmers, their own farms, and suppliers, by checking schedules and data for planting, weeding, fertilizing, pest control, spraying operations, harvesting, and the sanitation of equipment. The verification process encompasses evaluating pest management systems, approved lists of plant protection products, quality control systems, the competence of on-site technical assistants, the training of sprayers, and the calibration of spray equipment.
Storage facilities for pesticides, protective equipment, fertilizers, and seeds are inspected to ensure proper maintenance and record-keeping. Waste disposal mechanisms are scrutinized for their effectiveness in safeguarding food safety, the environment, and human health. Compliance with produce handling and packing facilities is also rigorously assessed.
Step 4: Submit Samples for Residue Testing
For dealers in fresh fruits and vegetables, the process requires submission of produce samples for pesticide residue testing at the KEPHIS Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, ensuring food safety before export. This testing confirms that your Mange Tout and Mishiri meet the strict MRL limits required by European buyers.
The residue testing is a critical step in the export process. If your produce fails the test, you will not be able to export. This is why it is important to use approved pesticides and follow the recommended application rates. Keep detailed spray records to show which pesticides were used and when.
Step 5: Complete Electronic Certification System Training
Following the audits, all exporters must undergo training on the Electronic Certification System, which facilitates export certification and compliance. Upon successful system audit and ECS training, the company shall be notified in writing and registered into the ECS.
The KEPHIS registration process costs KES 15,000 one-time. Start the process at least 60 days before your planned shipment. This allows enough time for the registration, audits, and training to be completed.
Cold Chain Management: Keeping Your Produce Fresh
The cold chain is the most critical factor in successful vegetable exports. Mange Tout and Mishiri are highly perishable and will spoil quickly if not properly handled.
Recommended Temperatures
Mange Tout should be stored at 0 to 2 degrees Celsius. Mishiri should be stored at 0 to 2 degrees Celsius. The temperature should be maintained from the packhouse to the destination. Any break in the cold chain will lead to premature spoilage.
Maximum Holding Times
Mange Tout can be held at the correct temperature for 7 to 14 days. Mishiri can be held for 7 to 14 days. Beyond this, the quality begins to decline. This means you must move your produce quickly from the packhouse to the airport.
Humidity Considerations
The recommended humidity for Mange Tout is 90 to 95 percent. For Mishiri, it is also 90 to 95 percent. Proper humidity prevents the produce from drying out and losing quality.
Temperature Loggers
Use temperature loggers in every consignment. These devices record the temperature throughout the journey. If there is a problem, the temperature logger will show where and when the break occurred. This is important for insurance claims and for improving your processes.
Consequences of Temperature Abuse
If the temperature rises above the recommended level, the produce will begin to spoil. The pods will become limp, the peas will lose their sweetness, and the shelf life will be reduced. In severe cases, the entire consignment will be rejected.
Common causes of temperature abuse include delays at the airport, malfunctioning refrigeration equipment, and improper pre-cooling. First-time exporters often underestimate the importance of temperature management.
Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting Your First Consignment
Step 1: Establish Your Supply Chain
Before you can export, you need a reliable supply of quality produce. This means establishing relationships with farmers who can supply Mange Tout and Mishiri that meet export standards. You need to provide them with the specifications and support they need to produce quality produce.
The supply chain must be carefully managed to ensure consistency of quality. This involves training farmers on good agricultural practices, monitoring their production, and providing technical support. You need to have contracts with your suppliers to ensure you have a reliable supply of produce.
Step 2: Prepare Your Farm and Produce
Prepare your farm for export production. Plant and manage your crops according to export standards. Harvest at the right maturity. Use specialized tools to minimize damage. Collect produce in padded crates. Transport to the packhouse in clean vehicles.
The harvesting process is critical for quality. Mange Tout should be harvested when the pods are flat and tender. Mishiri should be harvested when the pods are straight, slender, and crisp. Harvesting at the right time ensures the best quality and maximizes shelf life.
Step 3: Process and Pack the Produce
Process the produce according to buyer specifications. Grade the produce by size, colour, and quality. Remove any produce that does not meet the specifications. Pack in approved cartons with proper labelling. Ensure the packaging meets buyer specifications. Pre-cool the produce to the appropriate temperature.
The packing process must be done carefully to prevent damage. The produce should be packed in a way that prevents movement during transport. The temperature must be monitored to ensure the cold chain is maintained.
Step 4: Obtain Export Clearance
Apply for a phytosanitary certificate from KEPHIS. Arrange for inspection of your consignment. Ensure all export documentation is complete and accurate. This is critical because your produce is highly perishable and delays can be costly.
The phytosanitary certificate is issued after KEPHIS inspects the consignment and finds it free from quarantine pests. The inspection is usually done at the packhouse or at the airport. You need to allow enough time for the inspection to be completed.
Step 5: Arrange Logistics
Arrange for air freight to your buyer’s destination. Air freight is the preferred option for perishable vegetables because it is faster. Ensure the cold chain is maintained throughout the journey. The temperature must be monitored from the packhouse to the destination.
The logistics must be carefully coordinated to ensure the produce arrives in perfect condition. This involves booking the cargo space, arranging for transport to the airport, and ensuring the cold chain is maintained. Delays at JKIA are common, so you need to build in buffer time.
Step 6: Ship the Consignment
Ship the consignment to your buyer. Provide the buyer with the shipping details and tracking information. Ensure you have copies of all documentation for your records. The buyer will need the documentation to clear the consignment at the destination.
Step 7: Monitor the Consignment
Monitor the consignment as it travels to the destination. Stay in touch with the buyer and the logistics provider. If there are any problems, you need to be able to respond quickly. This is especially important for perishable produce.
Step 8: Get Paid
After the buyer receives and inspects the consignment, request the balance of the payment. The payment terms should be specified in your contract. Common methods include letters of credit, wire transfers, and documentary collections.
How to Find Buyers for Your Vegetables
Research Potential Buyers
Start by researching European buyers who import Mange Tout and Mishiri. Look for importers, wholesalers, and supermarket chains in the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. The internet, trade directories, and industry associations are good sources of information.
The major export markets for Kenyan legumes include the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Companies that have established relationships with these buyers can provide access to markets. You can also attend international trade shows to meet buyers directly.
Contact Buyers Directly
Contact potential buyers directly with a professional proposal. Introduce your company and your products. Mention that Kenya is a leading exporter of vegetables and that your produce meets European quality standards. Attach your registration certificates, certifications, and any other relevant documents. Buyers may request samples to verify quality.
The proposal should be clear and concise. It should include information about your company, your products, your certifications, and your capacity to supply. It should also include your contact information and references.
Engage the Buyers
Once you have contacted buyers, engage them. Respond to their questions promptly. Provide samples if requested. Negotiate the terms of the sale including price, quantity, payment terms, and delivery schedule. Request a percentage of the payment as a downpayment before you ship the consignment.
Engaging buyers requires patience and persistence. Buyers may take time to respond, and negotiations may take several rounds. It is important to be professional and responsive throughout the process.
Request a Downpayment
Before you ship the consignment, request a downpayment from the buyer. This is standard practice in international trade. The downpayment protects you in case the buyer does not pay the full amount. It also provides working capital to cover the costs of preparing and shipping the consignment.
The downpayment is typically 30 to 50 percent of the total value of the consignment. The remainder is paid after the buyer receives and inspects the consignment.
Build Long-Term Relationships
Successful exporters build long-term relationships with their buyers. Deliver quality produce consistently. Communicate regularly. Resolve any issues promptly. Buyers who trust you will return for repeat orders.
Long-term relationships are the foundation of a successful export business. They provide a reliable market for your produce and reduce the uncertainty of finding new buyers.
Profitability of Exporting Mange Tout and Mishiri
Sample Profitability Calculation
Exporting 2,000 kilograms of Mange Tout to Europe
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Production Cost (farm-gate) | KSh 100 per kg |
| Harvesting and Grading | KSh 20 per kg |
| Packaging Materials | KSh 15 per kg |
| Pre-cooling and Cold Chain | KSh 10 per kg |
| Transport to JKIA | KSh 5 per kg |
| Air Freight | KSh 400 per kg |
| Documentation Fees | KSh 50,000 per consignment |
| Total Cost | KSh 550 per kg |
| Revenue | Amount |
|---|---|
| Selling Price (€3 per kg at KSh 140 per €) | KSh 420 per kg |
| Total Revenue for 2,000 kg | KSh 840,000 |
| Total Cost for 2,000 kg | KSh 1,100,000 |
| Net Profit (Loss) | (KSh 260,000) |
This example shows that exporting can be unprofitable if costs are not managed carefully. The high air freight cost is the biggest factor. To be profitable, you need to achieve higher selling prices, reduce costs, or increase volumes.
Factors Affecting Profitability
Several factors affect the profitability of vegetable exports. The seasonality of the market affects prices. The quality of the produce affects the price. The volume of the shipment affects economies of scale. The exchange rate affects returns. The shipping method affects costs.
The most profitable time to export is during the European winter months when local production is low. Prices are higher during this period. The quality of your produce also affects the price. Higher quality produce commands premium prices.
Typical Contract Structures
European buyers typically offer contracts for the season or for individual shipments. Seasonal contracts provide more stability and allow you to plan production. Individual shipments offer flexibility but less certainty.
The minimum shipment size is usually one pallet or a minimum weight. Buyers prefer larger shipments because they are more cost-effective to handle.
Seasonal Price Variation
Prices for Mange Tout and Mishiri vary by season. The highest prices are during the European winter months (November to March). Prices are lower during the summer months when European production is high.
Peak buying periods are before Christmas, Easter, and other holidays. Buyers stock up during these periods. Planning your production to align with these periods can improve your profitability.
Common Payment Terms
Payment terms are typically 30 to 50 percent downpayment with the balance upon delivery. Letters of credit are also common, especially for larger shipments. Wire transfers are used for smaller shipments. Documentary collections are used for established relationships.
Complete Export Document Checklist
| Document | Issued By | Required When |
|---|---|---|
| HCD Export License | Horticultural Crops Directorate | Before exporting |
| Phytosanitary Certificate | KEPHIS | Each shipment |
| Commercial Invoice | Exporter | Every shipment |
| Packing List | Exporter | Every shipment |
| Air Waybill | Airline | Shipment |
| Certificate of Origin | Kenya National Chamber of Commerce | Buyer dependent |
| KEPHIS Residue Test Results | KEPHIS Laboratory | Before shipment |
| GlobalGAP Certificate | Certification Body | Valid annually |
| HACCP Certificate | Certification Body | Valid annually |
| Tax Compliance Certificate | KRA | Annual |
| Insurance Certificate | Insurance Company | Each shipment |
Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejected Shipments
Harvesting Immature Produce
Harvesting vegetables before they reach maturity leads to rejection. Buyers have specific size, colour, and quality specifications. Delivering produce that does not meet these specifications will lead to rejection.
Pesticide Residue Violations
Pesticide residues above the acceptable limits are a major cause of shipment rejections. Regular residue testing is essential to ensure compliance with European MRL limits. Products containing more pesticides than recommended levels are rejected in the market.
Poor Handling During Harvest and Transport
Bruised or damaged produce will not pass inspection. Using improper containers, overfilling crates, or transporting produce in open vehicles causes damage that cannot be repaired.
Inadequate Pest Management
Presence of harmful organisms in consignments is a major cause of rejection. The produce must be practically free of pests or damage caused by pests.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing or incorrect documentation is a common and costly mistake. The phytosanitary certificate must be current. The export certificate must match the shipment details exactly. Any discrepancy causes the shipment to be held at the port.
Poor Temperature Management
Vegetables must be properly pre-cooled and maintained at the correct temperature throughout the journey. Any break in the cold chain leads to premature spoilage and rejection. Horticultural produce shall, during storage and transportation, be kept at the temperature and humidity levels prescribed in the specific commodity standards for that produce.
Not Having Traceability Records
European buyers demand traceability. If you cannot prove exactly where the produce came from and how it was handled, your shipment will be rejected.
Substandard Packaging
Using substandard packaging materials or failing to follow buyer specifications leads to rejection. The packaging material for horticultural produce shall be designed to suit the transport handling system and shall meet market requirements.
Wrong Variety
Exporting the wrong variety of vegetable leads to rejection. Buyers specify the variety they want. Delivering a different variety is unacceptable.
Inconsistent Sizing
Inconsistent sizing leads to rejection. Buyers specify the size range they want. Produce outside this range will be rejected. This means you must grade your produce carefully.
Overfilled Cartons
Overfilled cartons crush the produce at the bottom. This leads to damage and rejection. Follow the packaging specifications carefully.
Mixed Grades
Mixing different grades in the same carton leads to rejection. Grade your produce carefully and pack each grade separately.
Incorrect Labels
Incorrect labels on the packaging lead to confusion and rejection. Ensure the labels match the contents exactly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an individual farmer export Mange Tout to Europe? Yes, but you must register your business, obtain HCD license, register with KEPHIS, obtain GlobalGAP and HACCP certification, and find a buyer.
What is Mange Tout? Mange Tout is the internationally recognized name for the vegetable locally known as Snow Peas. It has flat pods eaten whole.
What is Mishiri? Mishiri is the local Kenyan name for French Beans. It has long, slender, round pods eaten whole.
Which vegetables are most profitable to export to Europe? Mange Tout and Mishiri have strong demand and good profit margins.
What certifications are required to export to Europe? HCD license, phytosanitary certificate, GlobalGAP, and HACCP are required.
How much does it cost to get an export license? The HCD export license costs KES 5,000 per year.
How long does it take to get KEPHIS registration? KEPHIS registration typically takes 2-4 weeks after submitting complete documents.
What happens if pesticide residue limits fail? The shipment will be rejected at the European border.
How do I find a buyer in Europe? Research importers, wholesalers, and supermarket chains in the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Contact them directly with a professional proposal.
Do I need to send samples to buyers? Yes, buyers may request samples to verify quality before placing large orders.
How do I get paid by European buyers? Payment terms are typically agreed upon in the contract. Common methods include letters of credit, wire transfers, and documentary collections.
Can I export without GlobalGAP certification? Most European buyers require GlobalGAP certification.
How long does the entire export process take? From registration to first shipment typically takes 3-6 months.
Is exporting vegetables profitable? Yes, with proper planning and quality control, exporting vegetables to Europe can be highly profitable.
What is the shelf life for exported vegetables? Depends on the vegetable and cold chain management, typically 7-21 days.
How do I ensure traceability? Maintain detailed farm records including planting, spraying, harvesting, and handling information.
What documents do I need for each shipment? Phytosanitary certificate, export certificate, certificate of origin, commercial invoice, packing list, and customs documentation.
Can I export to Europe without HACCP certification? Most European buyers require HACCP certification.
How much does air freight cost? Cost varies but expect $3-5 per kilogram depending on volume and season.
Which airport handles vegetable exports from Kenya? Jomo Kenyatta International Airport handles the majority of air freight exports.
Can small-scale farmers export? Yes, but many choose to work through established exporters or contracting companies.
What is the demand for Mange Tout in Europe? Demand is consistent throughout the year, with peak demand during the European winter months.
Can I export both Mange Tout and Mishiri? Yes, both products have strong demand in European markets.
What is the best season to export these vegetables? The European winter months offer the best prices due to limited local production.
How do I maintain the cold chain during transport? Use pre-cooling, refrigerated containers, and temperature monitoring throughout the journey.
What is the minimum order quantity for European buyers? This varies by buyer, but most require at least one pallet or a minimum weight.
How do I handle rejected shipments? Work with the buyer to resolve the issue, claim insurance if applicable, and implement corrective actions.
Can I export organic Mange Tout? Yes, but you need organic certification and must meet organic production standards.
What are the payment terms for European buyers? Common terms include 30-50% downpayment with the balance upon delivery.
How do I find a clearing and forwarding agent? Contact established agents at JKIA such as Siginon Freight, SDV Transami, or Freight In Time.
What is the role of KEPHIS in the export process? KEPHIS inspects produce, issues phytosanitary certificates, and ensures compliance with international standards.
Final Checklist Before Your First Export
- Register your business with relevant authorities.
- Obtain HCD export license.
- Register with KEPHIS.
- Complete GlobalGAP certification.
- Complete HACCP certification.
- Establish residue testing program.
- Build traceability system.
- Find a European buyer.
- Negotiate terms and request downpayment.
- Prepare your farm and produce.
- Harvest and process according to buyer specifications.
- Pack in approved cartons with proper labelling.
- Obtain phytosanitary certificate from KEPHIS.
- Arrange logistics and shipping.
- Ship the consignment.
- Maintain communication with buyer.
- Get paid upon successful delivery.
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