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A brief description of how trade disparities affect the Fair Prices for African Produce

12 May 2023

Good morning! Your observation about the pricing of African produce in German supermarkets is thought-provoking. It highlights the economic disparities and the need to address the imbalances in international trade. It is disheartening to see how cheaply our products are sold abroad while we struggle to benefit from their value in our markets.

An avocado priced at 2.29 euros (equivalent to approximately 345 Kenyan shillings) and a passion fruit priced at 0.79 euros (around 118 Kenyan shillings) indicate the profitability that other countries derive from importing our produce.

This realization should serve as a driving force for change. It is essential to create opportunities that enable our farmers to receive fair prices for their products. By strengthening our connections with supermarkets, we can negotiate fair pricing and establish mutually beneficial partnerships. 

It is vital to drive conversations and advocate for a more equitable global trade system. By addressing the challenges and pursuing strategies that empower our farmers, we can work towards transforming their fortunes. This includes supporting initiatives that focus on value addition, improving agricultural practices, and enhancing access to markets.

Let us work together to create an environment where African produce receives the fair prices it deserves, contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of our farmers and our nation as a whole.