Kenya is a global leader in tea production and export, with the industry playing a vital role in the country’s economy. A critical component in this value chain is tea warehousing, where harvested tea is stored, sorted, and prepared for shipment. Tea warehouses ensure that the tea remains in optimal condition before it is transported to the Mombasa Tea Auction, the largest tea auction center in the world. Here, we provide a comprehensive list of licensed tea warehouse operators in Kenya approved by the Tea Board of Kenya.
Why Tea Warehousing is Important
Tea warehousing is essential for maintaining the quality of the tea before it reaches buyers. These facilities provide secure, hygienic storage and often include services such as blending, packaging, and logistics to ensure the smooth transfer of tea from the farm to the market. Given the scale of Kenya’s tea exports, efficient warehousing is crucial to meeting the demands of the international market.
How the Licensing Process Works
The Tea Board of Kenya is responsible for regulating the tea sector, including licensing tea warehouse operators. To become licensed, a warehouse must meet certain standards of hygiene, safety, and operational efficiency. The licensed operators are then allowed to store tea for companies participating in the auction, ensuring that the tea is handled in accordance with industry standards.
Full List of Licensed Tea Warehouse Operators in Kenya (2024)
Below is a list of the licensed tea warehouse operators in Kenya, along with their contact information:
| Tea Warehouse Operator | Phone | |
|---|---|---|
| 1. United (EA) Warehouses Limited | +254 722 919 912, 020 2319005 | uea@unitedwarehouses.co.ke |
| 2. Alibhai Ramji Msa Ltd | 020 2319508, +254 733 700 612 | alibhai@alibhairamji.com |
| 3. Bahari Transport Limited | 0735-511164 | ops@teahandle.com |
| 4. Bollore Africa Logistics | – | tea.msa@bollore.com |
| 5. Bryson Express Ltd | +254 768 200 556, +254 776 459 036 | brysonexpress@gmail.com |
| 6. Byline Swift Services Limited | 0722 107 795 | admin@bylineswift.com |
| 7. Cargill (K) Ltd | – | Mombasa_kenya@cargill.com |
| 8. Chaguo Limited | – | chaguolimited@gmail.com |
| 9. Chai Warehousing Limited | – | info@chaitrading.com |
| 10. Consolidated Msa Ltd | – | shipping@consolidated.co.ke |
| 11. D.L Koisagat Estates Warehouses Ltd | – | admin@thedlgroup.com |
| 12. DHL Supply Chain Kenya Ltd | – | Aila.Aliongo@dhl.com |
| 13. James Finlay Mombasa Ltd | – | jfmsa@jamesfinlay.co.ke |
| 14. Kipkebe Ltd | – | kipkebe@swiftMombasa.com |
| 15. Mitchell Cotts Freight Kenya | +254 730 110 000 | sales@mitchellcotts.co.ke |
| 16. Packmac Holdings Limited | +254 729 999 777 | info@packmac.net |
| 17. Risala Limited | 041 222 3825 | – |
| 18. Siginon Group Ltd | 0709 321 600 | corporate@siginon.com |
| 19. Tea Warehouses Ltd | – | info@teawhse.com |
| 20. Ufanisi Freighters (K) Ltd | +254 705 789 245, +254 20 203 830 | enquiries@ufanisi.co.ke |
Key Players in the Industry
1. United (EA) Warehouses Limited
- Location: Mombasa
- Overview: A well-established player in the tea warehousing sector, providing storage and logistics services to both local and international tea companies.
2. Bollore Africa Logistics
- Location: Mombasa
- Overview: A global logistics and transportation company with significant operations in Mombasa, Bollore Africa Logistics provides end-to-end solutions including warehousing and transportation for tea exports.
3. Siginon Group Ltd
- Location: Mombasa
- Overview: Siginon Group is one of the largest logistics providers in East Africa. It offers tea warehousing services along with transport solutions, ensuring that tea shipments reach their destinations efficiently.
4. Mitchell Cotts Freight Kenya
- Location: Mombasa
- Overview: Known for its modern warehouse facilities and efficient handling of tea consignments, Mitchell Cotts plays a critical role in the supply chain, especially for exports through the Mombasa port.
How to Choose the Right Tea Warehouse Operator
When selecting a warehouse operator for your tea storage needs, consider the following factors:
- Reputation: Look for operators with a strong track record in the industry.
- Capacity: Ensure that the warehouse can accommodate your storage needs, especially during peak production seasons.
- Location: Proximity to the Mombasa Tea Auction or the port can significantly reduce transportation costs.
- Value-Added Services: Some operators offer services like blending, packaging, and logistics which can streamline the export process.
The Role of Mombasa Tea Auction in the Tea Supply Chain
The Mombasa Tea Auction is a central point for tea trading in Kenya and is critical for tea exports from other East African countries. It facilitates the sale of bulk tea to buyers from across the globe, providing a transparent and competitive platform. Tea stored in licensed warehouses is sold through this auction, making warehousing a key link between tea producers and global markets.
The tea industry in Kenya is supported by a robust network of licensed warehouse operators who ensure the safe storage and handling of tea. With the oversight of the Tea Board of Kenya, these warehouses play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and integrity of the tea that makes its way to international markets. Whether you are a tea producer or exporter, partnering with the right warehousing service is essential for success in this vibrant sector.
For further inquiries, you can reach out to the Tea Board of Kenya using the following contacts:
- Phone: 020 2536886, +254 734 600 944, +254 722 200 556
- Email: info@teaboard.or.ke
Make sure to consult the Tea Board of Kenya for the most up-to-date information on licensed tea warehouse operators and regulations.
