EXPORT DIVERSIFICATION THROUGH HORTICULTURE - KENYA - A CASE-STUDY

Certain developing countries have achieved economic diversification th rough expansion away from the more traditional, internationally traded agricultural and beverage crops to horticultural crops for export. Ke nya is one such country. However, continued successful development of export markets for horticultural crops will depend on responding to th e future challenges. In order to maintain and expand the market share against increased competition from other developing countries, certain strategies are required by any country wishing to export horticultura l crops. The adoption of appropriate technologies such as refrigerated sea transport and pre-cooling facilities are necessary to maintain qu ality and minimize costs. Organized marketing must meet the demands of the market and comply with the importing country's legislation in ter ms of product, quality and specification. This requires a responsive a nd an innovative strategy. Finally, national and international trading policies need to be conducive to international trade.