Nairobi — Del Monte Kenya has contributed more than Sh100 billion ($800 million) to Kenya's economy over the past two decades, highlighting the growing role of large-scale agribusiness in driving growth and tax revenues.
A new impact report shows the contribution, equivalent to about 0.16 percent of annual GDP and 1.5 percent of agricultural output, was generated between 2004 and 2024.
The study, prepared by Lotus Consulting Limited, also highlights sustained fiscal contributions, with the company paying Sh8.5 billion in direct taxes since 2017, alongside Sh30 million in county levies and Sh755 million in social security contributions.
Indirect and induced taxes linked to its operations were estimated at Sh520 million in 2024 alone, reflecting spillover effects across sectors such as transport, manufacturing and trade.
Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn
Del Monte Kenya, a subsidiary of Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., remains the country's largest producer and exporter of processed pineapple products and fruit juice beverages.
The firm generated about $101 million in export earnings in 2024, with roughly 85 percent of its output destined for international markets.
"Our commitment to Kenya's growth is also reflected in our fiscal contribution. The Sh8.5 billion we have contributed in taxes since 2017 has supported national development priorities," said Managing Director Wayne Cook.
Beyond direct contributions, the report points to strong multiplier effects, with every shilling of value created generating an additional 59 cents across the wider economy.
The company supports nearly 20,000 jobs annually, with its operations impacting about 79,200 livelihoods across the value chain.
Lotus Consulting Principal Consultant Kamau Wairuri said the findings highlight broader economic benefits beyond GDP contribution.
"It is equally important to assess how the company is performing on capital investment. The data shows it has consistently reinvested earnings back into the Kenyan economy," he said.
The report comes at a time when the government is seeking to expand its tax base without stifling growth, positioning large agribusiness firms as key contributors to revenue, exports and employment.
