Kenya’s Meru County government has secured a deal to begin exporting bananas to China, All Africa reports.
The region’s growers, who have struggled to sell their produce domestically due to a flooded market, have welcomed the signing of the agreement and the opportunity to diversify their selling platforms.
The governor of Meru, Peter Munya, had stated that exporting bananas to China would boost the economy with revenue of more than Ksh9bn (US$100m).
“Returns from bananas in the entire country amount to KSh 9.4bn,” Munya told the media at the launch of a new market in Meru Town.
The region is Kenya’s leading banana producer.
While these bananas are set to be crushed into flour before being exported, the development paves the way for potential future fresh exports.
Munya has encouraged local farmers to boost their yields and increase exports to China.
The two countries have been extending their bilateral ties in recent months.
