floriNEWS Magazine.pdf Jul. 2014 | Seite 4

2 EDITOR’S NOTE Turning a new leaf As we reflect on the prospects and challenges for flower growers in 2014, I relish the opportunity to thank all our avid readers for their invaluable support that has enabled us to make continuous improvements to our newsletter. As growers intensify production, it is also important to highlight that the major retail chains in Europe are inclining towards certification processes and are increasingly demanding that all suppliers of cut flowers abide by strict international certification standards such as Fairtrade labelling (FLO), Milieu Programma Sierteelt (MPS), Global gap and Kenya Flower Council (KFC) certifications among others. Furthermore, some of the retail chains are also setting additional standards in terms of sustainable production. With the ever increasing expectations from the retail chains, the Kenyan growers cannot afford to overlook the importance of certification. In spite of the demanding critical compliance criteria that growers have to contend with, attaining internationally recognised certification standards will progressively become a prerequisite to gain market access as well as a competitive advantage. The Negotiations between the East African Community (EAC) and European Union (EU) officials on the Economic Partnership Agreement are still ongoing. The major outstanding issues have now been reduced to three; governance, export taxes, and subsidies. These are expected to be resolved by the Ministerial Council meeting expected to happen before end of May 2014. 4 In the event that a deal is not reached, then Kenyan flowers will attract import duty ultimately diminishing the competitiveness of the Kenyan flowers in the global markets. However, there is hope that the government is committed to ensuring that the negotiations are finalized before the October 2014 deadline. New market opportunities for Kenyan flower growers in Asia and the US are beckoning as airlines explore direct flight options from Kenya. This will be a good chance for growers to augment the traditional EU markets. Direct flights to these new markets will increase exports due to reduced freight costs, making the produce relatively cheaper when it gets to the market. Access to the lucrative US market is expected to cushion Kenyan growers during downside periods in Europe though mainland Europe takes nearly 90 percent of cut flower exports from Kenya and still remains the country’s single biggest export market. In line with our vision of “bringing plant potential to life” we recently introduced Hicure, an amino acid based biostimulant, for use in cut flowers. In this edition of floriNEWS, we will be featuring a grower who has experienced yield and quality benefits by consistently using Hicure®. With great conviction, I feel certain that you will be greatly informed on the current trends and developments by our columnists. Wishing you a favourable and productive season! Victor Juma Business Manager East Africa, Lawn and Garden