Kenya Coffee Exports Rose 17% in 2013–2014

In the 2013–2014 coffee year, Kenya’s coffee farmers saw their export revenues climb significantly—not because of a local production boom alone, but due to a mix of rising global prices and increased output. For specialty coffee drinkers tracking origin performance, this period marked a key moment when Kenya strengthened its position in a shifting market.

From October 2013 to September 2014, Kenya’s coffee exports earned $254 million, a 17% increase, with the volume of beans shipped rising 25% to 49,500 tonnes. Higher global prices, driven in part by Brazil’s drought, played a major role.

Why Did Kenya’s Coffee Export Earnings Jump?

The 2013–2014 period saw Kenya’s coffee export value rise to $254 million, up 17% from the previous year. At the same time, the volume of coffee exported grew by 25%, reaching 49,500 tonnes. These gains were fueled by a combination of increased production and a spike in global coffee prices.

Global Market Shifts: Brazil’s Drought and Its Impact

One of the key drivers of the price increase was a severe drought in Brazil, one of the world’s largest coffee producers. The resulting shortfall in global supply led to higher prices across the board, and Kenyan coffee farmers benefited from the uptick. This external market pressure helped push Kenya’s export earnings higher even as other factors also contributed.

Expanding Export Markets Beyond Europe and the US

Kenyas coffee exports traditionally flowed to Europe and the United States, but during this period, the country began tapping into new markets. Emerging destinations such as Turkey, Bulgaria, and Zambia opened up, diversifying Kenya’s export destinations and reducing reliance on its historical trade partners.

What Made Kenya’s Coffee Special Then—and Now?

Kenya is renowned for its high-quality arabica beans, grown at elevations between 1200 and 2000 meters. The cooler temperatures at these altitudes slow coffee cherry development, allowing for more complex flavor development and brighter acidity. The country’s signature SL28 and SL34 varieties—developed by the Scott Laboratories in the 1930s—are celebrated for their intense fruitiness, deep acidity, and wine-like sweetness. These beans, grown in high-phosphate volcanic soils, deliver a juicy, complex cup that has made Kenya a favorite among specialty roasters.

How Kenyan Processing Enhances Flavor

Kenya’s washed processing method plays a crucial role in shaping its coffee’s profile. After depulping, the beans undergo a 48-hour fermentation to remove the mucilage, followed by 24 hours of soaking in clean water. This double fermentation process enhances the coffee’s inherent fruit acids and creates a clean, vibrant cup with a juicy mouthfeel. The result is a coffee that highlights the qualities of its SL varieties and high-altitude terroir.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did Kenya’s coffee exports earn in 2013–2014?

Kenya’s coffee exports earned $254 million between October 2013 and September 2014, marking a 17% increase from the previous year.

Did Kenya export more coffee in 2013–2014?

Yes, export volumes rose by 25% to 49,500 tonnes during the 2013–2014 coffee year.

What caused the rise in Kenya’s coffee export prices?

The increase was driven by higher global coffee prices, partly due to a drought in Brazil, a major coffee-producing country, which reduced global supply and pushed prices up.

Which new markets did Kenya start exporting coffee to during this period?

Kenya expanded its coffee exports to emerging markets including Turkey, Bulgaria, and Zambia, in addition to its traditional European and U.S. markets.

What are the key coffee varieties grown in Kenya?

Kenya is famous for its SL28 and SL34 coffee varieties, known for their intense fruit flavors, high acidity, and wine-like profiles, developed by Scott Laboratories in the 1930s.

How does Kenya process its coffee?

Kenya uses a washed processing method involving 48-hour fermentation followed by 24 hours of soaking in clean water, enhancing the coffee’s fruit acids and creating a clean, juicy cup.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Kenya Lovers

FrontStreet Coffee’s Kenya Little Tomato combines the iconic SL28 and SL34 varieties, both celebrated for their vibrant fruitiness and bold acidity. Processed with a double washed method and medium-light roasted, this coffee delivers notes of cherry, pear, blackcurrant, plum, and brown sugar. Its juicy body and layered acidity make it ideal for pour-over or cold brew. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.