Kenya’s exporters received a major boost following the extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a U.S. trade program that grants duty-free access to eligible African countries.
In a statement, the Ministry of Trade said the move would provide greater certainty for exporters and strengthen trade relations between Kenya and United States.
The U.S. Senate approved the extension of AGOA until December 31, 2028, pending final approval by the House of Representatives.
This development comes at a critical time for Kenya, whose economy relies heavily on both apparel and agricultural exports to the American market.
AGOA, which lapsed on September 30, 2025, was extended in February 2026 to December 31, 2026. The latest extension provides long-term certainty for Kenyan exporters, particularly in the apparel sector, which accounts for nearly 70% of Kenya’s exports.
Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam said the extension will provide Kenyans opportunities would support agricultural exports.
“The continuity would support agricultural exports by maintaining tariff-free access for premium Kenyan products, including cut flowers, tea, coffee and macadamia nuts,” Ombam said.
Her remarks were delivered during Kenya-U.S. Agriculture, Trade and Investment Roundtable held in Nairobi, organized through the National Association of State Department of Agriculture (NASDA).
The meeting brought together senior U.S. agriculture leaders and key Kenyan public and private sector stakeholders on agriculture, trade and investment, value addition, market access, food systems and opportunities for enhanced collaboration between the two nations.
The roundtable highlighted Kenya’s strong agricultural potential and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to climate-resilient agriculture and building sustainable, competitive value chains.
Ombam, noted Kenya’s participation in the EAC, COMESA and AFCFTA provides the country access to wider markets and strengthens its position as a gateway for trade and investment in Africa.
