Kenya Halts China Trade Deal Following Pressure from the US. Nairobi, Kenya — Kenya has postponed the signing of a trade agreement with China, according to reports citing anonymous sources.
The delay comes amid pressure from the United States, which has expressed concerns about the deal’s implications.
The trade agreement would have removed Chinese tariffs on Kenyan farm exports, potentially benefiting the nation’s agriculture sector.
However, the delay is attributed to the U. S.
Urging Kenya not to proceed with the deal, suggesting geopolitical tensions may be at play.
Kenya is also seeking to renew its eligibility for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a U. S.
Trade preference program that provides duty — free access to the U.
S. Market for a wide range of products.
The expiry of AGOA on September 30, 2025, poses significant economic challenges to Kenya, with over $600 million in U. S. -bound apparel exports at risk.
The Standard newspaper and Bloomberg report that the deal requires the assent of Kenya’s cabinet, parliament, and president.
The Kenyan government and the Ministry of Trade have not publicly commented on the specifics of the delay, indicating that the decision may be sensitive and politically charged.
The situation reflects the complex dynamics of international trade and geopolitical relations, particularly in the context of U.
S. -China relations.
Kenya’s decision to delay the trade agreement with China may be a strategic move to maintain good relations with the U.
S. While also exploring other trade opportunities.
Further details are expected as the situation develops.
Source: Africa.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
