NAIROBI, Jan 15, 2026 — Kenya and China have agreed a preliminary “Early Harvest” trade arrangement granting duty-free access to 98.2% of Kenyan exports entering the Chinese market, a move officials say is designed to narrow a long-standing trade imbalance and pave the way for a full bilateral agreement.
Kenya’s Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry said the interim deal represents a breakthrough in Nairobi’s efforts to expand exports to Asia and strengthen its negotiating position in global trade talks.
According to ministry statements, the primary aim is to reduce Kenya’s trade deficit with China. In 2024, Kenya exported goods worth about $196.55 million to China, while imports from China were significantly higher, sustaining a persistent imbalance in bilateral trade.
Focus on Agriculture
The Early Harvest phase prioritises Kenyan agricultural exports, notably avocados, tea, coffee and macadamia nuts, sectors officials say have strong growth potential in China’s consumer market. The focus is expected to deliver immediate gains for Kenyan farmers and agribusiness exporters, while laying the groundwork for broader industrial trade expansion in later phases.
Technical Talks Concluded
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei said technical negotiations on the interim framework were concluded on Dec. 19, 2025. He added that both sides have exchanged tariff schedules and agreed rules of origin, key steps to operationalise the arrangement and prevent trade circumvention.
“This Early Harvest arrangement demonstrates tangible progress in Kenya–China trade cooperation and signals our shared commitment to achieving a comprehensive bilateral agreement,” Sing’Oei said.
Strategic Context
Analysts say the deal comes at a sensitive moment for Kenya as it balances deepening economic ties with eastern partners, including China, while maintaining strong relationships with western markets and institutions. The agreement is seen as part of a broader strategy to diversify export destinations, reduce reliance on traditional markets and secure improved terms in global trade negotiations.
If fully implemented, officials say the arrangement could lift Kenyan exports, attract investment into export-oriented sectors and strengthen foreign exchange inflows. Negotiations toward a comprehensive bilateral trade agreement are expected to continue in the coming months.
