Kenya is poised to boost its export market in China following plans to sign a new economic framework agreement with the Asian powerhouse. President William Ruto, currently on an official visit to China, revealed that the proposed framework seeks to establish a preferential trade agreement that will allow Kenyan products to enter the Chinese market duty-free.
Addressing members of the Kenyan community living in China, President Ruto said the agreement is part of a broader effort to reduce trade barriers and increase Kenya’s industrial and agricultural exports to China.
“Once signed, the framework will exempt Kenyan goods from duties and levies, giving our exporters greater access to the Chinese market,” said President Ruto.
This move follows China’s December 1, 2024 decision to eliminate tariffs on imports from all least-developed countries with which it maintains diplomatic ties — a policy that includes Kenya. The zero-tariff policy applies to approximately 98 per cent of taxable products, significantly reducing costs for Kenyan exporters.
“We urge the Kenyan Diaspora to support the transformative programmes that we are carrying out, especially in education, agriculture and health. We believe their input will enrich and accelerate the inclusive and prosperous Kenya that we want”. He added
Currently, Kenya’s industrial exports to China are subject to average tariffs of 8.9 per cent. Agricultural exports such as tea, coffee, and flowers attract even higher tariffs, averaging around 15.2 per cent. The proposed framework aims to eliminate these barriers and stimulate Kenya’s export economy.
In addition to trade negotiations, President Ruto also presided over the signing of seven investment deals with the Chinese government, collectively valued at over KSh 100 billion.
The agreements mark a significant step forward in deepening Kenya-China economic cooperation, opening new opportunities for trade, industrial growth, and job creation.
