Tea output and exports dwindle in Kenya
According to latest numbers, Kenya is facing declining tea production and exports. Tea output fell 12% to 229 million kilograms in the January-August period, compared with the same period last year. The country also expects its full year production to come in 9% lower than last year. The Tea Board of Kenya blames the decline on hot and dry weather conditions, as well as depressed rainfall during the first half of the year. Exports also declined by 2% during the same period and amounted to 286 million kilograms due to political unrest in a number of Middle East and North African countries, which are some of Kenya's biggest markets. However, Kenya expects full year export earnings to exceed the $1 billion mark, up 9% over last year.