Browse Data and Analysis

On October 3, 2022, Kenya’s newly elected president, Dr. William Ruto, lifted the 10-year ban on importation and cultivation of genetically engineered (GE) agricultural products. This decision opens a path to importation of GE agricultural commodities and domestic production of GE crops in accordance with Kenya’s existing regulatory structure.

Post forecasts Burmese rice exports lower in November. Despite the contracted shipment to Bangladesh, slow demand from African countries and high domestic prices will lead to lower exports in November. Domestic prices for Emata increased in November as local traders are purchasing stock in anticipation of a lower production. Prices for Shwe Bo Pawson also remained high.

This report describes the status of Burma’s production, regulations, public attitudes, trading, and labeling requirements for genetic engineered products and the current activities for agricultural biotechnology.

Post forecasts Burmese rice exports higher in October. Despite low demand from African countries, there is high demand from Bangladesh and China. Domestic prices for both Emata and Shwe Bo Pawsan declined in October as supplies from the new rice crop enter the market and the Myanmar kyat appreciated against the U.S. dollar.

Post forecasts Burmese rice exports higher in September with increasing demand for Burmese rice due to India’s policies restricting rice exports. Despite larger domestic rice supplies from the new rice crop, domestic prices for both Emata and Shwe Bo Pawsan rose significantly. The depreciation of the Myanmar kyat and high production costs have continued putting upward pressure on domestic rice prices.

Post forecasts Burmese rice exports lower in August due to fewer supplies in the domestic market, higher domestic prices, lower anticipated production, and changes to foreign currency policies. Domestic prices for both Emata and Shwe Bo Pawsan rose significantly.

This report reflects updates on the Food law in Section I, Food Labeling in Section II, and import procedures Section IX.

This report lists the major certificates required by Burmese government agencies for U.S. agricultural products exported to Burma. The list of certificates primarily focuses on major U.S. agricultural exports to Burma, such as soybeans and soybean meal, wheat products, distillers dried grains with solubles, meat and poultry products, fruits and vegetables, other grocery items, and seeds.

Post forecasts Burmese rice exports lower in July due to reduced domestic supplies and higher domestic prices. Domestic prices for Emata remained high, while prices for Shwe Bo Pawsan rose due to lower domestic supplies.

This report complements the FAIRS Annual Country Report for Kenya and provides information on certificates required by the Government of Kenya (GOK) to export food and agricultural products into the country. The Kenya Electronic Import Export System provides a single point for importers and exporters to electronically submit certificates and receive approvals from relevant trade regulatory agencies.

This report provides updates on Government of Kenya (GOK) import requirements and regulations for food and agricultural products. It includes applicable laws and guidelines, import procedures, and contact details of key trade regulatory and specialist agencies.

Kenya’s strategic geographical location and growing middle class makes it an economic, financial, and transport hub for East and Central Africa. Agriculture remains the main contributor to the economy with approximately 75 percent of the 54.7 million population working fully or partially in the agriculture sector. However, high fertilizer prices, small rain-fed fields, and low productivity are obstacles to increasing domestic supply while Kenya’s growing population, increasing urbanization, and growing incomes will spark higher demand for imported food.