Kenya has intensified efforts to secure zero-duty access for its agricultural and livestock products in the Chinese market, with Cabinet Secretary Agriculture and Livestock Development Mutahi Kagwe urging senior officials from the General Administration of China Customs (GACC) to fast-track long-pending approvals.
In a high-level meeting held in Nairobi, Kagwe engaged a delegation led by GACC Vice Minister Wang Jun, accompanied by senior officials Sun Renhong, Zheng Wei, Sun Junchao and Jiang Huixin. China’s Ambassador to Kenya, Ms. Guo Haiyan, Minister Counsellor Zhou Zhencheng and Second Secretary Zeng Hui were also present.
The CS raised concern over the high tariffs currently imposed on Kenyan exports — 8% on non-roasted coffee, 20% on roasted coffee, 15% on tea and up to 20% on avocados. He urged China to expedite movement towards zero-duty arrangements for these products, arguing that reducing tariff barriers is key to addressing the widening trade imbalance.
Kenya imported goods worth approximately USD 4.5 billion from China in 2024 while exporting only USD 290 million in return, largely raw agricultural commodities. “The deficit is unsustainable,” Kagwe said, calling for urgent steps to eliminate tariffs and hasten sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) clearances for Kenyan produce.
Kagwe noted that both countries are in the process of finalising a bilateral framework that would remove tariffs on major Kenyan agricultural exports, but delays in signing and implementation have frustrated farmers and exporters. He insisted that commitments made during President William Ruto’s meeting with President Xi Jinping must now be executed.
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The CS also confirmed that Kenya has completed most of its required technical submissions. The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) has finalised export protocols for fresh mangoes, dried chillies, green grams, dried fruits such as mango, banana and pineapple, as well as plant-derived medicinal materials. These applications now await GACC approval.
He told the delegation that Kenya is fully prepared to begin large-scale shipments once clearance is granted. He also proposed deeper cooperation in agricultural research, value chain development, laboratory strengthening and specialist training, including the exchange of scientists.
He further urged the Chinese delegation to clear long-pending livestock export applications — some awaiting approval for more than two years saying the entry of Kenyan meat into China would mark a historic milestone for farmers and processors.
The meeting is expected to strengthen momentum toward securing full market access for Kenyan agricultural and livestock products in China.
By Obegi Malack
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