Kenya is set to benefit from the recent extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) by the United States House of Representatives, which grants the country an additional three years under the trade framework. The move is hailed as a key milestone in US – Africa trade relations.
The Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry highlighted that the extension offers renewed confidence for Kenya’s textile and apparel sectors operating in Export Processing Zones (EPZs), which currently provide direct employment to over 80,000 people and indirectly support approximately 250,000 more. Officials indicated that the extension will facilitate expansion of exports, not only in textiles but also in other product categories, helping to create jobs and stimulate wealth creation.
“Kenya aims to leverage the AGOA framework fully, ensuring growth in additional export sectors and maximising opportunities for employment and economic development,” stated the Ministry.
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In parallel, Kenya is exploring a bilateral trade agreement with the U.S. to cover additional strategic sectors, strengthening the long-standing trade partnership between the two nations. The discussions follow President William Ruto’s recent visit to Washington, D.C., where Kenya sought enhanced market access to the U.S. for key exports such as textiles, apparel, coffee, tea, horticultural products, and tourism services.
Expanding the export portfolio remains a priority for the government, aligning with broader economic strategies to increase competitiveness and boost foreign exchange earnings. The Ministry emphasised that the AGOA extension and potential bilateral agreements are central to Kenya’s ambition of fostering sustainable economic growth through trade diversification.
