EU to Seal Most Ambitious African Trade Deal with Nairobi

Nairobi, 18 June 2023- The European Union Commission aims to conclude and seal negotiations on the free trade agreement with Kenya.

European Trade Commissioner and Executive Vice President, Valdis Dombrovskis, is in Nairobi for an official visit aimed at concluding the negotiations of the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).

The negotiations of the agreement will take place on Monday, with Executive Vice-President Dombrovskis and Kenyan Trade Minister Moses Kuria, in the presence of Kenyan President Dr. William Samoei Ruto.

The EU-Kenya EPA is set to boost trade in goods and create new economic opportunities, with targeted cooperation to enhance Kenya’s economic development.

This is the most ambitious EU trade deal with an African country when it comes to climate protection and labour rights.

The visit of Mr. Dombrovskis demonstrates the commitment of the European Union to strengthening its ties with Kenya and fostering mutual prosperity.

Through the EU-Kenya EPA, both parties are poised to establish a robust foundation for trade cooperation, promoting sustainable economic growth, and ensuring the protection of vital environmental and social standards.

During his visit, the EU Trade Commissioner will engage with Kenyan and EU businesses, in addition to paying a visit to Vegpro, a prominent vegetable exporter.

Furthermore, he will visit the Dutch Flower Group, a notable flower trader, to discuss airfreight and sea freight in the context of floriculture.

The Executive Vice-President on Sunday met the Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife,and Heritage, Peninah Malonza, to discuss wildlife tracking and measures taken.