The Trade Connect and Growth Gateway Programmes (TCGGP) are UK government initiatives
launched to enhance trade and investment between the UK and Kenya, with a particular focus on
the horticulture sector. These programmes aim to support Kenyan exporters by providing targeted
trade and investment assistance, thereby increasing the presence of Kenyan horticultural
products, such as fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, mangoes, and avocados, in UK markets.
Under this program the Kenyan and UK governments have also come up with a horticultural trade
facilitation initiative aiming to enhance the exports of fruits, flowers and vegetables from Kenya to
the UK by reducing tariffs. The initiative has led to reduced checks and inspection fees on selected
Kenyan horticultural products such as cut flowers, thus facilitating more cost-effective export
processes.
Implementation Status
The TCGGP program was launched in 2022 and is currently ongoing. The program focuses on
strengthening trade relations for horticultural fresh produce from Kenya to the United Kingdom.
TCGGP targets key horticultural value chains and collaborates with stakeholders, including UK
and Kenyan businesses, investors, and government agencies. These partnerships help identify
and address trade barriers, such as infrastructure challenges and high logistical costs. The
programmes also advocate for scaling up of commercial farms and improving trade infrastructure.
Key Findings
The program has been operational for close to two years, during which the following
achievements have been realized:
- Enhanced trade: The programme proposes actions including improving access to
markets for horticultural fresh produce and trade infrastructure and also enhancing
finances and reducing tariffs to boost the export of fresh produce from Kenya to the UK. - Potential for increased UK exports: The programme has identified opportunities for the
increased export of horticultural fresh produce from Kenya to UK in areas such as quality
certification and technical services, such as refrigeration, to boost cold-value chain.
Despite the programmes’ efforts, challenges persist, including addressing infrastructure
deficiencies, reducing logistical costs, and enhancing the capacity of farmers and exporters to
meet UK market standards.