The Chinese government has vowed to speed up the implementation of the zero-tariff trade agreement with Kenya, during President William Ruto's state visit in April 2025.
Speaking during a reception to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, Guo Haiyan, said the two countries will work together to ensure Kenyans start benefiting as soon as possible from the deal.
“In June, President Xi Jinping announced to expand
zero-tariff treatment for 100% of tariff lines for 53 African countries with which
China maintains diplomatic ties, including Kenya. China will work with Kenya to
ensure the zero-tariff takes effect at an early date so our people can benefit
sooner from our cooperation,” she said.
The zero-tariff trade pact, once implemented, would allow all
goods manufactured or produced in Kenya to be exported to China without duty. It will open the Chinese market to African goods.
“China's commitment to reforms and opening up remains unwavering, with its door open even wider. Having the world's second-largest consumer market, China offers the greatest potential for investment and
consumption. Embracing China is embracing opportunities. Believing in China is believing
in a better tomorrow, and investing in China is investing in the future. We
welcome all of you to China to share opportunities.”
In 2023, China was Kenya's largest source of imports, valued at approximately Sh459 billion.
Kenya's total exports to China stood at Sh29 billion at the
time.
Guo hailed President William Ruto’s state visit to China, where, together with the Chinese president, they agreed to further strengthen bilateral ties.
During the state visit, at least 20 cooperation agreements witnessed by the two leaders were signed, and implementation work has been ongoing behind the scenes.
“In April this year, President William Ruto paid a successful state visit to China, and the two heads of state agreed to elevate our bilateral ties to a China-Kenya Community with a shared future for the new era. Witnessed the signing of 20 cooperation documents and issued a joint statement.
“They agreed to build the China-Kenya relationship into an inspiring example in developing the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era, to lead development of China-Africa relations and the forging of solidarity and cooperation among global south countries.”
The Ambassador praised the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (Focac), which she said has taken China-Kenya relations to greater levels.
“This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (Focac),” Guo said.
Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, 62 years ago, the two nations have respected and supported each other, built our cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, a hallmark of bilateral relations, she added.
“We have steadily deepened our all-round strategic cooperation and partnerships.”
Speaking on behalf of the Government, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi appreciated the positive contribution that China made to the development of African countries, including Kenya.
He expressed willingness to work with China to firmly safeguard multilateralism and a fair and equitable international order in this complex and changing international situation.
