Kenya and China have embarked on preliminary trade talks aimed at strengthening their trade and investment relations, with a key focus on improving Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) standards and expanding market access for Kenyan exports.
The discussions, held on Monday in Nairobi between Trade Principal Secretary Regina Ombam and the Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, Guo Haiyan, are part of ongoing efforts to establish a comprehensive trade framework that will open more opportunities for Kenyan products in the Chinese market.
According to PS Ombam, the proposed agreement seeks to expand export opportunities for key commodities such as tea, coffee, and fish, while laying a strong foundation for long-term trade partnerships. The talks also underscored the importance of enhancing SPS measures for agricultural and fishery products to ensure compliance with international standards and promote product safety.
Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) standards are global regulations designed to protect plants and animals from pests and diseases, ensuring that agricultural goods traded internationally are safe and free from harmful organisms. These standards are guided by principles from the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).
Ambassador Guo Haiyan reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s economic growth through increased trade and investment cooperation. She noted that China remains open to deepening partnerships in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
Both countries also agreed on the need to promote sustainable and inclusive trade that benefits local producers and small enterprises, enabling them to tap into expanded export markets.
The talks are expected to form the groundwork for a comprehensive trade and investment agreement between the two nations. Kenya and China enjoy a long-standing partnership built on trade, infrastructure development, and technical cooperation, with China ranking among Kenya’s largest trading partners.
