Wednesday, August 6,
2025 - President William Ruto has defended Kenya’s strengthening trade ties
with China despite rising concern from Western allies, particularly the United
States.
Speaking during a private sector roundtable on Wednesday,
August 6th, Ruto revealed that China has agreed to lift all tariffs
on key Kenyan exports - including tea, coffee, and avocados - after months of
bilateral negotiations.
“They have agreed to remove all the tariffs on our tea,
coffee, avocado, and other agricultural exports.”
“That is a major breakthrough for us,” Ruto said, noting that
the move will expand Kenya’s access to the world’s second-largest economy.
The announcement comes amid U.S unease over Kenya’s growing
alignment with strategic rivals such as China, Russia, and Iran.
A recent amendment introduced by U.S Senator James Risch
seeks to review Kenya’s Major Non-NATO Ally status over its foreign
policy direction.
Ruto acknowledged the strain but stood firm: “It’s partly
why I have a bit of a problem with some of our friends.”
“But it is in Kenya’s best interest to access these
markets.”
Kenya is also pursuing trade deals with India, Turkey, and
Canada, while appealing U.S tariff hikes and pushing for a bilateral agreement
ahead of the expiry of AGOA in September.
The Kenyan DAILY POST
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