The Kenyan government is considering budgetary allocations to address a significant backlog of Sh12 billion in VAT refund claims owed to flower exporters, alongside reforms to the tax system.

• A total of over Sh12 billion is currently owed to flower exporters.
• Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui is leading the government's efforts.
• The delays have negatively impacted the cash flow, expansion plans, and global competitiveness of Kenya's vital flower industry, which contributes approximately 1.6 percent of GDP and 18 percent of export earnings.

Kenya is implementing aviation reforms, including expanding Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and revitalizing Kenya Airways (KQ), to boost its share of the global flower market.

• The country aims to improve export competitiveness through enhanced air cargo handling, lower logistics costs, and expanded freight capacity.
• Key figures include Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui and President William Ruto.
• The government is also targeting new markets like the United States and has allocated approximately Sh38.7 billion towards the JKIA expansion.

The International Trade Centre (ITC) and Equity Group Holdings have partnered to address the trade finance gap and boost exports in East Africa's key value chains.

• The agreement aims to unlock finance and skills for small businesses in sectors like coffee, leather, and creative industries.
• Key players include ITC Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton and Equity Group CEO James Mwangi.
• A pilot phase in Kenya will run until December 2026, with regional expansion planned from 2027.