Kenya and Italy are engaged in discussions to formalize an agreement aimed at eliminating double taxation for goods and services traded between the two countries. This move, according to Italy’s Ambassador to Kenya, Roberto Natali, is poised to attract investments into Kenya, creating valuable job opportunities for the nation’s young population.
Speaking at the 2nd edition of the Gambero Rosso Italian wine roadshow, held on Thursday, 30th January 2025, at Shamba Village in Nairobi, Ambassador Natali emphasized the importance of stable taxation policies in fostering a conducive environment for long-term investment. “Kenyan authorities also need to have stable taxation policies so as to enable investors to make long-term plans when considering doing business here. This is a great concern for Italian businesses operating in Kenya,” he remarked.
The roadshow, which brought together wine importers, distributors, retailers, and restaurateurs from across East Africa, showcased award-winning wines presented by 44 producers from 15 regions in Italy. The event also featured masterclasses led by wine connoisseurs Giuseppe Carrus and Victoria Mulu-Munywoki, enriching attendees’ knowledge about the intricacies of Italian wine.
Ambassador Natali also highlighted the growth of Italian wine imports into Kenya, which had surged by 12% over the past year. This growth is attributed to an increasing appreciation for Italian wine among Kenyan consumers and efforts by Italian wine producers to expand their market share in the region. According to Mark Artivor, the founder of Vinpodium, the international roadshow’s organizer, several new wineries have started exporting to Kenya since the last Gambero Rosso event in 2024, a clear indication of the growing demand for Italian wines in East Africa.
Italy ranks as the third-largest wine exporter to Kenya, following France and South Africa. With the market poised to generate Ksh. 11.6 billion in revenues in 2025, the future of Italian wines in Kenya looks promising.
In addition to trade, the Kenya Tourism Board is leveraging such international partnerships to promote the country’s culinary and tourism offerings. Fiona Ngesa, the Board’s Deputy Director of Business Development, highlighted the importance of showcasing Kenya’s unique culinary experiences, aiming to attract more visitors to lesser-known destinations like Leleshwa in the Rift Valley.
The discussions around double taxation and the flourishing wine trade are part of a broader strategy to strengthen economic ties between Kenya and Italy, positioning both nations for mutual growth and long-term prosperity.
