Data from the Sugar Directorate indicates exports grew to 1,034 tonnes from 277 tonnes in the comparable period last year, representing a 273 per cent jump. “Overall sugar exported in January – June 2018 were 1,034 tonnes against 277 tonnes in the same period last year,” says the report. Kenya was last year accused by regional states of importing duty free sugar then selling products to neighbouring states. Kenya produces about 600,000 tonnes of sugar yearly against an annual consumption of 870,000 tonnes. The sugar deficit is usually covered by stringently controlled imports from the Comesa trade bloc where Kenya allows a quota of 300,000 tonnes.

Source: Daily Nation July 30, 2018 18:11 UTC