African nation, Kenya and the United Kingdom have formally signed a trade agreement.
The event which took place in London had Trade cabinet secretary Betty Maina sign on behalf of Kenya while international trade minister Ranil Jayawardena signed on behalf of the UK.
It was disclosed that the trade deal will enable Kenyan exporters to continue accessing the UK market under a duty free, quota-free arrangement.
The deal specifically touches on fresh vegetables, coffee, tea and cut flowers although it could be expanded in the future to include textile, livestock and fish, according to Nairobi.
It should be noted that the UK market accounts for 43% of total exports of vegetables from Kenya as well as at least 9% of cut flowers
According to reports, both sides were eager to agree a deal before Britain formally exits the European Union (EU) on December 31.
Speaking on the development, UK’s International Trade Minister Ranil Jayawardena said “I am delighted that today we have signed a trade agreement with Kenya. This deal makes sure businesses have the certainty they need to continue trading as they do now, supporting jobs and livelihoods in both our countries”.
Records have it that Kenya’s top exports to the UK include tea, coffee, vegetables and flowers.
The east African country mostly imports machinery, electronics and technical equipment from London.
Official records have it that Trade between the two countries reached $1.8bn in 2019.
According to reports, the deal will become operational once the national assemblies of both countries ratify it. It includes clauses that allow other East African Community states (Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda) to join in the future.
