Kenya- US Reaffirm Trade Ties

The Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam received Mr. James H. Potts, Economic Counsellor at the Embassy of the United States of America in Nairobi, for a courtesy call aimed at strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations.

Mr. Potts acknowledged Kenya's strategic position as an economic hub in East Africa and expressed the United States' interest in deepening commercial ties. Ms. Ombam emphasized the importance of predictable trade frameworks and greater private sector involvement to unlock bilateral trade potential.

Both parties agreed on the importance of aligning trade and investment policies to drive inclusive economic growth.

PS Ombam highlighted Kenya's goal to transition from a predominantly export-of-raw-materials model to a value-added export economy. She stressed the need for technical support and capacity building in trade negotiations, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, textiles, and services. Mr. Potts welcomed these efforts and noted that U.S. development agencies could provide advisory and technical expertise to enhance Kenya's negotiating capabilities.

The meeting reviewed the status of the STIP, launched in July 2022, which outlines key pillars including digital trade, agriculture, anti-corruption, labor rights, and trade facilitation.

With the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) set to expire in 2025, both delegations discussed the importance of a seamless transition and the potential renewal of the Act. Ombam reiterated Kenya’s leadership in AGOA utilization, particularly in apparel exports, and called for an extension that supports long-term certainty for exporters. Potts indicated ongoing discussions in Washington, D.C. and expressed optimism about bipartisan support for AGOA renewal, while also encouraging Kenya to prepare for a more reciprocal trade framework in the long term.