A Kenyan delegation, led by Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui and Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam, is in Washington D.C. for a three-day working tour aimed at strengthening trade and investment ties with the United States, the Ministry of Trade said in a press release on Monday, August 18, 2025.

The visit comes at a time of heightened global trade uncertainty, as several countries face new U.S. tariffs while Kenya maintains preferential access to the American market.

On July 31, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order introducing tariffs ranging from 10 to 41 per cent on goods from 69 countries. Major economies such as Brazil, India, Japan, and the United Kingdom were affected, along with several African nations. South Africa and Algeria face tariffs of 30 per cent, while countries like Uganda, Ghana, and Angola have been hit with 15 per cent duties. Kenya, however, was spared and continues to enjoy a 10 per cent import duty on exports to the U.S., providing it a competitive edge in the region.

Kenya eyes export opportunities

The Kenyan delegation’s discussions in Washington are expected to centre on securing long-term export opportunities, particularly in light of the pending expiry of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which currently provides duty-free access for certain Kenyan products. The potential loss of AGOA benefits could affect key sectors such as horticulture, apparel, and coffee, making these discussions critical for the country’s export-driven economy.

The delegation is also engaging with the American private sector through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Interest from U.S. investors in Kenya continues to grow, reflecting confidence in the country’s position as a strategic gateway to Africa. Meetings aim to explore new investment opportunities while addressing trade barriers that could affect broader export sectors.

“Kenya and the United States enjoy historic relations built on mutual benefit.” the statement read.

Kenya’s exemption from the steep tariffs positions it more favourably than other African nations, offering an opportunity to strengthen its market share in the U.S. economy. The visit also comes amid efforts to renew and negotiate trade terms that could replace or complement AGOA after its expiry on September 30, 2025, which is expected to reshape Africa-U.S. trade relations.