UK signs trade deal with Kenya in "first step" towards East Africa regional agreement

The UK has today signed an economic partnership agreement with Kenya to support post-Brexit trading between the two countries.

The deal, which was signed in London by International Trade Minister Ranil Jayawardena and Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Trade, Minister Betty Maina, aims to support jobs and economic development in Kenya, as well as avoid possible disruption to UK businesses.

The UK market accounts for 43 per cent of total exports of vegetables from Kenya - which is one of the largest economic markets in East Africa - as well as at least 9 per cent of cut flowers.

International Trade Minister Ranil Jayawardena commented: “I am delighted that today we have signed a trade agreement with Kenya.

“This deal makes sure businesses have the certainty they need to continue trading as they do now, supporting jobs and livelihoods in both our countries.

“Today’s agreement is also a first step towards a regional agreement with the East African Community, and I look forward to working with other members to secure an agreement to forge ever-closer trading ties.”

Minister for Africa James Duddridge added: “This agreement will provide the strongest possible platform for the United Kingdom, Kenya and, ultimately, the whole EAC, to expand our trade relationship in future.

“We will use this agreement as the catalyst to deepen our mutual prosperity alongside the other areas of cooperation in our Strategic Partnership with Kenya that includes security, sustainable development, climate change, and cultural pillars.”