The majority of Kenya’s floriculture industry has put on hold development projects due to government delays in releasing VAT refunds, compounded by numerous levies, fees and charges that have created unpredictability and increased operational costs.

Clement Tulezi, Chief Executive Officer of Kenya Flower Council (KFC), says delayed VAT refunds currently held by the government exceeds Sh12 billion, putting pressure on growers and forcing them into costly borrowing.