Kenya’s Macadamia Exports to China Triple as Demand for Healthy Snacks Grows

Kenya’s macadamia nut exports to China tripled to Ksh5.4 billion in 2023, driven by rising demand for healthy snacks and cosmetic oils. The Nut Growers Association reports that direct air cargo shipments from Nairobi to Guangzhou now bypass Middle Eastern re-exports. Over 200,000 smallholders in Meru, Embu, and Kirinyaga benefit from premium prices, with certified organic nuts fetching up to $12/kg. Chinese e-commerce platforms like JD.com feature Kenyan brands prominently. The two countries are negotiating mutual organic certification to boost value-added exports like macadamia oil by 2025.