NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 12 – Kenya is seeking a stronger foothold in the global macadamia trade after showcasing the crop at Expo 2025 Osaka, where the Kenya Pavilion highlighted the country’s export growth and potential for deeper market penetration.
Kenya is currently the world’s third-largest producer of macadamia nuts, contributing about 13 percent of global supply. The sector earned Sh7.6 billion in 2024, up from Sh6.9 billion the previous year, driven by increased production and expanded acreage.
Exports rose to 51,200 tonnes in 2024, from 46,400 tonnes in 2023, with the United States, Netherlands, Germany, Vietnam, China, and Japan accounting for more than 86 percent of sales. Japanese consumers, in particular, have shown rising interest in Kenyan nuts, citing quality and flavor as key attractions.
The Expo event gave Kenya an opportunity to strengthen trade ties with Asia, a region expected to anchor future growth for the industry. Analysts say the presentation of Kenyan macadamias at Osaka not only highlighted export potential but also underscored the role of agriculture in boosting foreign exchange earnings.
More than 500,000 smallholder farmers are engaged in nut production across central, coastal, and eastern regions. Expansion into new growing zones, improved post-harvest handling, and compliance with international standards are expected to sustain growth in the coming years.
Kenya’s presence at Osaka forms part of a wider push to diversify agricultural exports beyond tea, coffee, and flowers, with nuts now emerging as a key player in the country’s export portfolio.
