NAIROBI, May 6 (NNN-KBC) — Kenya and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to fast-tracking the implementation of the Kenya-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), a landmark trade pact that came into force on July 1, 2024.
The renewed commitment was made during a courtesy call by EU Ambassador to Kenya, Henriette Geiger, on the Principal Secretary for Trade, Regina Ombam, where the two leaders held in-depth discussions on enhancing bilateral cooperation and fully operationalizing the EPA Council.
Ombam emphasized the urgency of activating the EPA Council — the top governing body established under the agreement — to effectively steer the agreement’s execution and maximize its benefits.
“To achieve the full potential of this agreement, the EPA Council must be fully functional and play an active role in guiding its implementation,” said Ombam.
Geiger echoed the PS’s sentiments, noting that the EPA reflects a shared commitment to building a stable and reliable trading framework between Kenya and the EU, especially in the context of shifting global trade dynamics.
The Kenya-EU EPA guarantees duty-free and quota-free access for Kenyan exports to the EU market, while offering enhanced cooperation in areas such as trade in goods, investment, and the creation of new value chains. It is expected to diversify Kenya’s exports, attract foreign direct investment, and foster sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
The two parties also discussed preparations for the upcoming 2nd Kenya-EU Business Forum, set to take place in Nairobi. Themed “Digitalising Trade”, the forum will bring together high-level policymakers, private sector leaders, innovators, and development partners from both sides.
Jointly organized by the EU Delegation to Kenya, EU Member States’ embassies, and key Kenyan stakeholders, the forum will explore how digital transformation can enhance trade efficiency, expand market access, and drive inclusive development.
The strengthened partnership between Kenya and the EU signals a pivotal moment for deepening trade ties and creating resilient, mutually beneficial economic relations. — NNN-KBC
