Fresh Perspectives 23 - The Kenyan Horticultural Exports Ltd experience of private voluntary standards

Horticulture provides a key livelihood support to rural households especially in the Central province, and part of Eastern and rift valley provinces in Kenya. Private voluntary standards (PVSs) are now a basic requirement for entry into the export horticulture market. All importers require their suppliers to furnish them with details of accreditation in order to be suppliers to the European Union. PVS had initially been viewed as a major barrier to trade in Kenya. However the standards have also brought benefits - provided improved mechanisms of managing the small-scale suppliers and generally increased Good Agricultural Practice (GAP).