Kenya and the European Union (EU) have signed a trade agreement aimed at deepening economic ties between the two regions and countering China’s influence in Africa. The deal, known as the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement, grants Kenya duty-free and quota-free access to the EU market, its largest trading partner.

In return, imports from the EU to Kenya will receive gradual tariff reductions over a 25-year period. The agreement covers various sectors, including agriculture, with Kenya exporting products such as vegetables, fruits, tea, coffee, and cut flowers to the EU. The deal is seen as a significant achievement for both Kenya and the EU, providing stability and new opportunities for businesses in both regions. It also reflects the EU’s focus on enhancing trade relations with Africa amid increasing competition from China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

The agreement serves as a platform for future trade links between the EU and Africa, with the EU considering Africa a priority region for economic cooperation. The deal is the first comprehensive trade agreement between the EU and an African nation since 2016 and marks a step in countering the growing influence of Russia and China in Africa.