Kenya is set to sign a new trade agreement with China within the next 30 days, a move that will allow Kenyan farmers to export their products to the Asian market at zero tariffs, according to the Ministry of Trade.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui, speaking to NTV on Wednesday, February 4, said the Duty-Free, Quota-Free (DFQF) deal will grant Kenyan producers unrestricted access to the Chinese market once finalised.
Kinyanjui noted that avocado and pork farmers are among the key beneficiaries expected to gain from the agreement.
Kenyan Farmers Set to Benefit as China Trade Agreement Nears Signing.Photo: Courtesy.
He added that the government leveraged the strong diplomatic relations between Kenya and China to push for the deal, expressing optimism that it will significantly strengthen agricultural exports and boost the country’s overall export sector.
Kinyanjui noted that the agreement is expected to enhance Kenya’s economic standing by placing the country at a competitive advantage over neighbouring least-developed nations, many of which already enjoy similar trade arrangements with major global economies.
He explained that Kenya has previously faced disadvantages due to its higher economic classification, with some exporters reportedly routing products through neighbouring countries to access duty-free benefits when exporting to China.
To support farmers, the government plans to deploy officers across the country to provide guidance and ensure that agricultural products destined for export meet the required quality standards.
Kinyanjui also highlighted Kenya’s rapid growth in avocado production over the past decade, expressing confidence that the country could soon rank among the world’s top producers if current trends continue.
Meanwhile, the Trade CS revealed that Kenya is also engaged in discussions with the United States to finalise another trade agreement within the next two months.
He said the deal would serve as a fallback plan once the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) arrangement, extended to December 31, 2028, eventually expires.
