The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) has rolled out a Rose False Codling Moth Systems Approach (Rose FCMSA) to prevent a potential ban on Kenya’s lucrative rose exports to the European Union (EU) market. Validated by key stakeholders on Thursday, the protocol aligns with the EU’s strict “systems approach” requirements, ensuring Kenyan roses meet the zero-tolerance threshold for False Codling Moth (FCM) infestations.
The comprehensive measures outlined in the protocol aim to prevent, detect, and control FCM throughout all stages of rose production—from pre-harvest to post-harvest. Given that roses make up 34 per cent of Kenya’s flower exports to the EU, maintaining access to this vital market is crucial. However, the increasing threat of FCM has presented a growing challenge for the sector.
FCM, a quarantine pest native to Sub-Saharan Africa, is highly destructive. Its larvae damage a wide range of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and flowers. In roses, FCM compromises the quality of cut flowers, leading to frequent interceptions in international markets, particularly in the EU.
Since 2017, FCM has been classified as a regulated quarantine pest by the EU, triggering stringent measures to prevent its introduction via imports. Frequent interceptions of Kenyan rose exports have prompted the EU to intensify its inspection protocols. As a result, sampling rates for Kenyan rose consignments have escalated from 5% in 2020 to 25% as of May 2024.
In response to the growing concerns, the EU introduced Regulation (EU) 2024/2004, effective 26th April 2025, imposing even more rigorous pest management standards for roses exported to the EU.
Thursday’s consultative meeting in Nairobi brought together flower farmers, exporters, representatives from the Fresh Produce Exporters Association of Kenya, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, the Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency, and other key government agencies.
KEPHIS Managing Director Prof. Theophilus Mutui described the situation as a “catch-22” but emphasized Kenya’s commitment to making necessary adjustments to preserve its place in the EU market and safeguard investments in the floriculture industry.
Following the protocol’s validation, KEPHIS will submit the final document to the EU for review and approval. If accepted, implementation will begin immediately to ensure full compliance by the April 2025 deadline. The protocol reflects a concerted effort by all stakeholders to secure the future of Kenya’s rose exports and promote sustainable trade practices.
KEPHIS reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring Kenya maintains its reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality roses while meeting EU phytosanitary standards. The agency continues to lead the charge in driving compliance with international market requirements, ensuring the long-term sustainability of Kenya’s floriculture industry.
