UK removes export tariffs for African flowers

Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda, the major cut flower exporters in Africa, will be the biggest beneficiaries of a decision by the UK to remove export tariffs for two years. According to a notice issued by the UK Government, flowers in limitless quantities from East Africa can now be transported to the UK with a 0% charge, even if they pass through a third country. News24 reports that this is especially significant for producers who sell flowers via auction houses before arriving in the UK. Before the suspension, duty on cut flowers was 8%. John Humphrey, the UK's Trade Commissioner for Africa, said the decision was part of their commitment to strengthening trade relations with East Africa. ‘The UK’s relationship with East Africa is rooted in mutually beneficial trade. This additional flower power will allow trade to bloom. We go far when we go together, or in this case, we grow far when we grow together, further reinforcing the UK’s commitment to the expansion of trade in East Africa,’ he said.