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Kenyan BMF1 and FNGS (Fannings) Tea

Updated: Dec 5

Quality, Variety, and Reliable Supply

Kenya is renowned globally for its high-quality tea, offering a wide variety of grades suitable for diverse markets. For Somalia, a country with a strong tea-drinking culture, Kenyan tea—especially Kenyan BMF1 and FNGS (Fannings) Tea—is a perfect fit.


This blog explores the types of Kenyan tea available for the Somalia market and why it’s an excellent choice for Somali tea importers.


Why Kenyan Tea?

In 2023, Kenya exported about 12 million kilograms of tea to Somalia, making it one of the top destinations for Kenyan tea. Somali tea importers prefer Kenyan tea for its high quality, versatility, and ability to suit local tastes.


Popular tea brands in Somalia include Shaah Somali, SOMTEA, Best Golden Tea, Somali Gold, Baraka Shaah, and other private-label brands that serve both small traders and large wholesalers.


With high-quality Kenyan BMF1 and FNGS (Fannings) from us, your tea brand will deliver a rich, thick cup with a deep color and robust flavor, making it a favourite choice on shelves and tea stalls across Somalia.


Types of Kenyan Tea for the Somalia Market

Kenya offers a range of teas tailored to the needs of Somali importers, especially bulk. The market often prioritises strong, full-bodied teas that steep quickly, aligning perfectly with Kenyan offerings.


Bulk Tea Grades


(Kenyan BMF1 and FNGS (Fannings) Tea for Somali Importers):


These are commonly used for blending or sold as is in local markets:


Close-up of Kenyan BMF tea, known for its robust flavor and thick liquor, perfect for strong, spiced tea enjoyed in Somalia.
Kenyan BMF Tea: A strong, full-bodied tea ideal for Somali market preferences, delivering a rich flavor and deep color.

BMF1 (Broken Mixed Fannings 1): A popular grade in Somalia, BMF is ideal for making strong, full-bodied teas often enjoyed with milk or spices.


This grade is also cost-effective for bulk distribution. We can pack BMF1 in two convenient options: 2kg bags or 25-gram sachets (400 sachets packed in a 10kg sack), perfect for smaller traders in the market.


For retail, we also offer 250-500 gram pouches.





A close-up of Kenyan Fannings Tea, known as FNGS, showcasing its rich, fine leaves ideal for making strong and flavorful tea.
Kenyan Fannings Tea (FNGS): The perfect choice for strong, flavorful brews that capture the essence of traditional tea culture.
  • Fannings: A versatile grade, Fannings are widely used in tea bags or loose-leaf formats, offering a strong brew with a quick infusion time. These are particularly favoured for traditional Somali tea, which requires a robust flavour profile and a bright, appealing colour.

  • PD (Pekoe Dust): This fine-grade tea is known for its intense flavour and rapid infusion, making it ideal for markets that prioritise strong and brisk teas. PD is often used in loose-leaf tea or blended into custom spiced teas, which are integral to Somali tea culture.


Packaging Options


We provide tea in various packaging formats to meet market demands:


Bulk Packaging: 


  • 50 - 60 kg brown paper sacks are our most popular form of packaging for our bulk tea customers. They are re-enforced with 2 layers to ensure the bag is intact throughout the shipping process.


  • 5 - 100 Kg unlaminated woven polyproplyne sacks, also known as poly sacks, are also one our most widely used packaging sacks especially used when exporting Kenyan tea to Somalia.


Custom Branded Packaging: 


Private-label options, including retail-ready glossy multi-colored pouches, help importers build their brand in Somalia. These pouches are available in convenient sizes ranging from 250 to 500 grams.


How Kenyan Tea Aligns with Somali Preferences


Somalia’s tea culture is rooted in strong, flavourful brews, often infused with spices and served with milk.

A steaming cup of Shaah Cadays, Somali spiced tea prepared with high-quality Kenyan tea and milk, served in a traditional setting.
Shaah Cadays: Traditional Somali spiced tea made with premium Kenyan tea and milk, a perfect blend of flavor and aroma.

Kenyan teas, known for their robust flavour and bright liquor, align perfectly with these preferences.


The affordability of bulk tea grades like Kenyan BMF1 and Kenyan Fngs (Fannings) tea, makes them particularly appealing to Somali markets, where tea is a daily staple.


Additionally, the availability of specialty grades and blends allows importers to target niche segments, such as premium cafes, restaurants, or health-conscious consumers.




Challenges Somali Tea Importers May Face


While Kenyan tea is highly sought after, Somali tea importers may encounter several challenges when dealing with Kenyan exporters. These challenges include:


  • Inconsistent Quality: Variability in tea quality can affect the reputation of Somali brands. For instance, a batch that lacks the expected strength or flavour profile can lead to customer dissatisfaction.


  • Delayed Shipments: Logistical challenges, including delays at ports or mismanagement of export schedules, can disrupt supply chains and lead to stock shortages in Somalia.


  • Limited Customisation: Some exporters may not offer tailored blends or packaging solutions, which are critical for meeting specific market preferences.


  • Price Volatility: Fluctuating tea prices can make it difficult for Somali importers to plan their budgets and maintain competitive pricing in local markets.


How We Solve Common Challenges


We make it easier for Somali tea importers to succeed by addressing common challenges:


  • Consistent Quality: We ensure every batch of tea meets high standards for flavour, strength, and freshness by conducting multiple quality checks before shipment.

  • Timely Deliveries: Our reliable logistics system ensures that your tea arrives on schedule, with real-time shipping updates to keep you informed.

  • Customised Products: We tailor blends and packaging to meet the preferences of the Somali market, such as creating spice-infused teas for traditional Somali tastes.

  • Fair and Stable Pricing: We offer transparent pricing to help you plan your budget and stay competitive, even in changing market conditions.

  • Ongoing Support: From your first inquiry to after-sales assistance, we are with you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and productive partnership.


Why Partner with Us?

We specialise in sourcing and supplying premium Kenyan tea to global markets, with a focus on understanding and meeting specific market needs. For Somali importers, we offer:


  • Customized Solutions: Tailored blends and packaging, including glossy multicolored pouches (250-500 grams), to suit your market preferences.

  • Competitive Pricing: Affordable rates for bulk purchases and private label options.

  • Reliable Supply Chain: Consistent quality and timely deliveries to ensure uninterrupted supply.

  • Exceptional Quality Assurance: Rigorous quality control standards at every stage of production to ensure you receive tea of the highest caliber.

  • Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing: Commitment to sustainable farming practices and fair trade, benefiting both customers and Kenyan tea-growing communities.

  • Comprehensive Support: Personalised assistance from your initial inquiry to after-sales services, helping you grow your business.


A shipping container filled with Kenyan BMF1 and FNGS (Fannings) teas, ready for export to Somalia, showcasing bulk packaging for reliable delivery and quality assurance.
High-quality Kenyan BMF1 and FNGS teas being prepared for export to Somalia: Ensuring freshness, consistency, and satisfaction for Somali importers.

Take the First Step

If you’re a tea importer in Somalia, we’d love to be your trusted partner in sourcing premium Kenyan tea. Here’s why getting in touch today is the right move:


  • Expert Consultation: We understand the Somali market preferences and trends to help you make informed decisions and grow your market share.


  • Sample Our Tea: Experience the unmatched quality of our teas firsthand by requesting samples tailored to your preferences.


  • Customized Quotes: Share your market needs, and we’ll provide competitive quotes designed specifically for your business.




Don’t wait—reach out now to discover how we can elevate your tea offerings and strengthen your position in the Somali market.


Together, we can make Kenyan tea a staple in your community.

Illustration of the three steps for Somali importers to buy Kenyan tea: consultation for market needs, sampling premium tea, and receiving tailored quotes for seamless transactions.
Three easy steps to source premium Kenyan tea: Consult with us, sample our tea, and receive a customized quote tailored to your needs.


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