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Macadamias: crackdown in Kenya

June 10, 2025 at 10:22 AM , Der AUDITOR
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MOMBASA/BEIJING. Authorities have cracked down on smugglers in Kenya. For suppliers in China the export ban for macadamias is a serious problem. Trump’s tariffs have so far failed to shake the industry.

Illegal containers unveiled

As local broadcaster ntv reported on 3 June intelligence agents seized three 40-foot containers carrying an incredible 27 mt of raw macadamia nuts at the Port of Mombasa. Kenya has a strict export ban for raw macadamia nuts in place, which is meant to protect farmers and the local processing industry and enhance value addition. Industry representatives have, however, frequently warned that this would give rise to smuggling in the past few months. An exporter, identified as DLI International Group, intended to smuggle the volume seized, which is valued at USD 64,300, to China via Mozambique by falsely declaring the nuts as tarpaulin. Authorities are currently holding the containers for further inspection in Mombasa.

Export ban a problem in China

Macadamia exports from Kenya to China have gained traction in recent years. Annual imports from Kenya have risen nearly twentyfold from 400 mt to 7,600 mt as data issued by the World Macadamia Organisation indicates. Local suppliers in China also highlight that raw material supplies are running low because of Kenya’s export ban. Some are already sold out on certain sizes. Expectation is that prices will remain high, if the ban remains in place. China is the second largest producer after South Africa and Kenya presently ranks fourth after Australia.

Cool head over Trump’s tariffs

Apart from this, the industry is keeping a cool head regarding Trump’s import tariffs. At present a 10% blanket tariff prevails for shipments from South Africa and Kenya. As suppliers here have a diverse customer base there is little need to worry. US importers also highlight the importance of having a diverse supplier base as it is impossible to foresee, which country will be hit with what tariff. Fact, however, is that the US requires imports to meet domestic demand. Anticipation is that the US market can stomach slightly higher prices. For China a reciprocal import tariff of 30% currently prevails with negotiations for a more permanent deal taking place.

 

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