KFC is one of the most recognized fast-food chains worldwide, with a presence in over 150 countries and territories by 2025. Despite its vast reach, there are still countries where the Colonel’s fried chicken hasn’t made an appearance.
From China’s bustling streets to the quiet corners of the Pacific, let’s explore the countries that have embraced KFC and those that remain without it.
Click the link to read about what counts as a county.
Table of Contents
KFC’s Global Expansion Strategy: Adapting to Local Tastes
KFC’s success is largely due to its ability to adapt its menu to suit local preferences. In China, KFC has become the largest fast-food chain, with over 7,000 outlets. The menu here includes rice bowls, congee, and even hot pot, catering to local tastes. Similarly, in India, KFC offers a wide variety of vegetarian options to meet the dietary preferences of the population.
The Zinger Burger, a spicy chicken sandwich, is a bestseller in India, showing how KFC customizes its offerings while maintaining its iconic fried chicken.
And let us not forget the legend that is the Beef Wagyu Burger that is quite simply only available in the Middle Kingdom.
Surprising places that do not have KFC
Despite its global success, there are still a few countries where KFC hasn’t made its mark. Here are some of the most notable absences:
- North Korea: OK, so this is not a big surprise that they do not have KFC, but that could have all changed if the Trump-Kim summit had gone differently. Heck it still might.
- Bhutan: Known for its focus on happiness over consumerism, Bhutan has a preference for local food and hasn’t embraced fast food on a large scale. Quite the shame as they could do with some good food.
- Laos: Despite the popularity of KFC in neighboring Thailand and Vietnam, Laos remains one of the few Southeast Asian countries without KFC outlets.
- Fiji: Despite being a popular tourist destination, Fiji lacks KFC outlets, likely due to its small population and competition from local fast-food chains. They do though have McDonald’s and Burger King.
- Yemen: Ongoing conflict and instability have kept KFC from entering the Yemeni market, but this is no big surprise.
- Liberia: Despite its history of being an American colony, having African Americans run the show and being very friendly to Uncle Sam, the Colonel has not made it here.
Surprising countries that do have KFC
So, while there are some surprising countries that do not have KFC there are even stranger ones that do have KFC!
1. Cuba
KFC in Cuba might seem odd given the country’s communist roots and long-standing embargo with the US. However, this fast-food giant has managed to sneak in via the US base at Guantanamo Bay. Are we cheating here? Perhaps just a little.
Photo: VOCKET
2. Lebanon
Lebanon is known for its rich culinary traditions, so you might be surprised to find KFC among the many local delicacies. But in a country where fast food is increasingly popular, KFC has established a strong presence, particularly in Beirut. The fried chicken chain has adapted its menu to local tastes, offering a variety of options that cater to the Lebanese palate, making it a surprising but popular choice for a quick meal.
3. Botswana
KFC in Botswana might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of African countries, but this Southern African nation is home to a number of KFC outlets. In fact, KFC is incredibly popular in Botswana, and the country boasts one of the highest KFC per capita rates in Africa. The chain has become a staple for fast food lovers, offering a mix of local flavors alongside the classic fried chicken.
4. Armenia
Armenia, nestled in the Caucasus region, is a country known for its rich food culture, from hearty stews to flavorful kebabs. Despite the abundance of local dishes, KFC has made a surprising mark here. The fast-food chain opened its first restaurant in Yerevan in 2008, and since then, it has expanded across the country. KFC in Armenia offers a blend of international and local flavors, catering to both locals and tourists who are looking for a quick and familiar meal.
5. Mongolia
Mongolia, a land known for its nomadic traditions and love of meat, might seem like an unlikely place for KFC. However, the fried chicken chain has managed to find a foothold in the capital, Ulaanbaatar, and other cities. KFC opened its first restaurant in Mongolia in 2006, and it has since become a popular fast-food option. The local menu includes some unique items, such as spicy fried chicken and rice dishes, making it a surprising addition to Mongolia’s food scene.
Photo: What’s on Weibo
KFC’s Strategy for Global Success
KFC’s global expansion strategy involves adapting its menu to local tastes and forming partnerships with local businesses. In Japan, for example, KFC has become a Christmas tradition, with Santa and the Colonel now considered brothers in arms, and families quite literally flocking to the restaurant.
In Mexico, KFC offers spicy chicken options and tacos, catering to the local love for bold flavors. Similarly, in South Africa, KFC serves up pap and gravy, a local staple, alongside its classic fried chicken.
Shocking places that have KFC
While some countries are missing KFC, others have turned into unexpected success stories:
- Russia: Well they are actually now called Rustikss due to issues over the war in Ukraine, but much like Hungry Jacks and Burger King it is basically the same. In this sense they still have KFC
- Egypt: KFC is incredibly popular in Egypt, with over 200 locations. The chain has successfully tailored its menu to local tastes, offering spicy chicken and rice dishes.
- Turkey: KFC has been a staple in Turkey since the 1980s, offering grilled chicken and salads to cater to local preferences for healthier options.
- South Korea: KFC is a premium fast-food choice in South Korea, where it is often seen as a treat for special occasions, rather unlike the north who who do not have KFC
The Future of KFC: Expansion and New Markets
As KFC continues to expand, it faces increasing competition from local chains and other international fast-food giants. The next frontier may include countries where KFC has yet to establish a significant presence. Will we see KFC in Afghanistan or Greenland in the future? Only time will tell.
Click to read about which countries have Burger King.
Conclusion: KFC’s Global Reach in 2025
KFC’s global reach is truly impressive, with over 24,000 locations in more than 150 countries. While there are still a few countries where the Colonel’s fried chicken is absent, the brand continues to grow, adapting its menu to meet local tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re enjoying a bucket of fried chicken in the United States or a rice bowl in China, KFC remains one of the most recognizable fast-food brands worldwide. And for now at least no one looks like they will be able to take the crown, not even a stupid clown!