Kenya Faces Higher Wheat Prices as Import Approval Delays Continue

The Cereal Millers Association (CMA) has warned that delays in issuing C60 wheat import approvals could lead to higher prices for wheat flour, bread, and other wheat-based products in Kenya.

CMA Chief Executive Officer Paloma Fernandes said that the delays are leaving wheat consignments at risk of incurring demurrage, storage, and financing costs, which could be passed on to consumers.

Fernandes noted that millers have fulfilled their obligations under the local wheat purchase arrangement but are still waiting for outstanding import approvals. She emphasized that ensuring farmers have a ready market remains a priority, but administrative processes should not interfere with import planning.

The warning comes at a sensitive time for global grain markets, with renewed disruption along the Black Sea, one of the world's most important grain-exporting regions. Fernandes urged authorities to release all outstanding C60 approvals and prioritize wheat consignments already at the port.