Kenya and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in agriculture and trade, following a high-level discussion between Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe and UAE Ambassador Dr. Salim Ibrahim Alnaqbi at the UAE Embassy in Nairobi. The engagement builds on recent agreements aimed at boosting trade and investment between the two nations.
In January 2024, Kenya and the UAE signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), a landmark deal that eliminated key trade barriers and opened up new markets for Kenyan exports. Under CEPA, Kenya has gained increased access to the UAE market for its agricultural products, including meat, fruits, vegetables, and flowers. This agreement is expected to enhance Kenya’s agricultural exports and strengthen its economic ties with the UAE.
Furthermore, a 2023 trade agreement with Dubai expanded investment opportunities for Kenyan businesses while allowing for a more diverse exchange of goods. As a result, Kenya has been able to increase its imports of electronics, machinery, and vehicles from the UAE, supporting the growth of local industries and infrastructure development.
To bolster business partnerships, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and the Dubai International Chamber signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement facilitates trade missions and investment forums aimed at enhancing business cooperation between enterprises in both countries. The MoU underscores the commitment of Kenya and the UAE to fostering economic collaboration and encouraging investment in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.
Official data highlights the growing trade relationship between Kenya and the UAE. In 2023, the total trade volume between the two nations reached Ksh 445 billion, with the UAE ranking as Kenya’s sixth-largest export destination and its second-largest source of imports. Notably, the UAE accounted for 16 percent of Kenya’s total imports, reinforcing its position as a critical trading partner.
As both countries continue to strengthen their economic ties, the renewed commitment to trade and agricultural cooperation is expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance Kenya’s competitiveness in the global market. The partnership between Kenya and the UAE serves as a model for mutually beneficial trade agreements that support sustainable economic development.
