Kenya Seeks Trade Agreement with Trump Administration Amidst China Tensions

Kenya Seeks Trade Agreement with Trump Administration Amidst China Tensions

As the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) approaches its expiration, a high-level Kenyan trade delegation has arrived in Washington to engage in diplomatic negotiations with the Trump administration. The move is seen as a strategic pivot by Nairobi, as its relations with China face mounting challenges.

According to sources in Washington, the Kenyan delegation is primarily seeking to clarify the situation regarding China, amidst growing concerns within the Trump administration. The meeting takes place against the backdrop of a $2.1 million lobbying agreement signed between Nairobi and a firm associated with the Trump circle.

The AGOA, which has been in place since 2000, provides eligible African countries, including Kenya, with duty-free access to the US market. However, with the agreement set to expire, Kenya is exploring alternative trade arrangements to ensure uninterrupted market access.

The diplomatic overture is seen as a significant development in Kenya's efforts to diversify its trade relationships, particularly in light of the increasingly complex dynamics with China. As the East African nation seeks to navigate the shifting global trade landscape, its engagement with the Trump administration may prove crucial in securing a favorable trade agreement.