How to Import Flowers from Kenya to the Netherlands

The trade of cut flowers between Kenya and the Netherlands is a significant economic link, with Kenya being a major global exporter and the Netherlands serving as a central hub for the European flower market. Kenya's floriculture industry is a substantial contributor to its national economy, with cut flowers, particularly roses, forming a large percentage of its horticultural export earnings. The Netherlands plays a crucial role as the primary destination for these Kenyan flowers, acting as a gateway to the broader European market through its well-established trade infrastructure and the prominent Dutch Flower Auction. Successfully importing flowers from Kenya to the Netherlands involves navigating regulations and procedures in both countries with care and expertise.

Dutch Import Requirements

Upon arrival in the Netherlands, imported flowers are subject to regulations and oversight by Dutch authorities, including the Nederlandse Voedsel- en Warenautoriteit (NVWA) and the Kwaliteits-Controle-Bureau (KCB). Compliance with EU phytosanitary regulations is essential, particularly concerning pests like the False Codling Moth. This requires meticulous documentation, including a Phytosanitary Certificate, Customs Declaration, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and potentially a Common Health Entry Document (CHED). Importers must also adhere to Dutch Customs procedures, declaring goods and paying applicable taxes.

Navigating these details correctly is the key to seamless entry. This information is for general guidance only—some details may be outdated or omitted. Please seek professional advice to ensure full compliance with current regulations.

What Kenyan Exporters Must Prepare

From Kenya’s side, flower exporters must prepare a range of documents to ensure a smooth export process. These include the phytosanitary certificate, commercial invoice, packing list, air waybill, and an export license issued by the Kenya Revenue Authority. A certificate of origin is also needed to verify the flowers qualify for duty-free access. To maintain freshness, flowers are flown to the Netherlands using specially ventilated packaging, moisture-retaining materials, and strict cold chain procedures.

How Kenya Awaits Helps: We work hand in hand with our vetted Kenyan flower producers to ensure all their export preparations, from documentation to cold chain management, are meticulously handled, safeguarding the quality and compliance of your shipment from farm to freight.

The Challenge for Dutch Buyers: Finding Reliable Suppliers

Sourcing flowers from Kenya can present challenges for Dutch businesses without a trusted partner on the ground in Kenya. Many small farms, while producing excellent quality, may struggle to consistently meet the specific EU standards or volume requirements. Some exporters may not always guarantee supply reliability, especially during peak demand periods like Valentine's Day or Mother's Day. Without deep local knowledge and established relationships, Dutch businesses might invest significant time in sourcing, face unexpected delays, or receive products that don't meet their exacting quality standards impacting their reputation and bottom line.. Managing the intricate logistics and compliance process independently can also be time-consuming and often costly.

How Kenya Awaits Helps: We act as your dedicated eyes and ears in Kenya, bridging this gap with expertise and care. Our curated network connects you directly to proven, certified farms, eliminating unnecessary intermediary costs and protecting your profit margins. These are partners fully capable of meeting, and often exceeding, EU quality and volume demands. We provide the deep local expertise and proactive, hands-on management that minimizes sourcing risks, ensuring you connect with producer partners who will truly elevate your floral offerings at excellent farm-direct value.

Kenya Awaits: Your Trusted Flower Sourcing Partner

Kenya Awaits understands these complexities and offers a supportive, expert solution for Dutch businesses looking to source flowers directly from vetted Kenyan farms. We ensure quality standards are met, all documentation is in order, and shipments arrive on time, handled with care. Our dedicated team in Kenya manages inspections, packaging, and logistics, allowing you to focus on your core business with peace of mind.

Ready to Simplify Your Kenyan Flower Imports to the Netherlands? Discover how our personalized sourcing solutions can meet your specific needs. Let's discuss your requirements for varieties, volumes, and delivery schedules. Contact our expert team today via kenyaawaits.com/contact to start your seamless sourcing journey.