Procedure for Exporting Coffee from Kenya

Exporting coffee from Kenya involves a specific procedure to ensure that the quality and authenticity of the country’s renowned coffee beans are maintained. This process is crucial to ensure smooth transactions, compliance with international regulations, and the satisfaction of coffee buyers worldwide. Here is a detailed overview of the procedure for exporting coffee from Kenya.

1. Coffee Farming and Harvesting: Coffee production in Kenya begins with the cultivation and harvesting of coffee cherries. The coffee plants are meticulously grown in the highlands of Kenya, where the ideal climate and altitude contribute to the unique flavor profiles of Kenyan coffee. The cherries are handpicked by experienced farmers at the peak of ripeness to ensure the best quality.
2. Processing and Milling: After harvesting, the coffee cherries undergo processing to extract the coffee beans. The cherries are sorted, pulped, and fermented to remove the fruit pulp, leaving behind the coffee beans. Subsequently, the beans are washed, dried, and sorted based on their size, shape, and density. This meticulous milling process ensures that only high-quality coffee beans are prepared for export.
3. Licensing and Registration: Exporting coffee from Kenya requires obtaining the necessary licenses and registrations. The coffee exporter must be registered with the Coffee Directorate, which is responsible for regulating and promoting the coffee industry in Kenya. The exporter must also obtain an export license from the Coffee Directorate to legally export coffee.
4. Quality Control and Certification: Kenya takes pride in its coffee quality, and stringent quality control measures are in place to maintain its reputation. The coffee beans undergo thorough quality assessment and cupping tests to ensure they meet the strict standards set by organizations like the Coffee Research Institute and the Coffee Directorate. Coffees that meet these standards receive certification, such as the well-known Kenyan AA or AB grade.
5. Auctioning and Trading: In Kenya, coffee is primarily sold through a centralized auction system. Licensed coffee buyers, both local and international, participate in these auctions to purchase coffee lots. The auction provides a platform for fair and transparent trading, where buyers bid on the lots based on their quality and characteristics. Successful bidders are awarded the coffee lots for export.
6. Export Documentation: Exporting coffee from Kenya involves a series of documentation procedures. The exporter must prepare the necessary documents, including the Coffee Exporters’ Declaration, phytosanitary certificates, invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin. These documents verify the quality, quantity, and origin of the coffee and are essential for customs clearance and international trade.
7. Shipping and Logistics: Once all the documentation is in order, the coffee is prepared for shipment. The exporter arranges for transportation, usually by sea, to the destination country. Proper packaging, including jute bags or vacuum-sealed bags, is crucial to preserve the coffee’s freshness and flavor during transit. The exporter works with shipping companies and logistics providers to ensure smooth and timely delivery of the coffee to its destination.
8. Import Regulations and Compliance: Exporters must adhere to the import regulations and requirements of the destination countries. Different countries have varying standards for coffee imports, including certifications, labeling, and packaging specifications. It is essential for exporters to understand and comply with these regulations to avoid any issues or delays during customs clearance.
9. Market Distribution and Sales: Upon arrival at the destination, the coffee is distributed through various channels, including wholesalers, coffee roasters, retailers, and specialty coffee shops. These entities further process, roast, and sell the coffee to consumers. Building strong relationships with buyers and maintaining a consistent supply of high-quality coffee is crucial for the success of Kenyan coffee exports.

Coffee Directorate Office