In a significant move to bolster economic collaboration, Kenya and China have agreed to expedite the conclusion of a free trade agreement (FTA) following high-level discussions between President William Ruto and Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang. This development underscores the deepening partnership between the two nations, aiming to enhance market access and mutual economic growth.​

Accelerating Trade and Investment Relations

President Ruto, currently on an official visit to China, announced the commitment to fast-track the FTA, emphasizing the importance of strengthening economic ties. “At my meeting with Prime Minister Li Qiang, we agreed to accelerate trade and investment relations between Kenya and China. We also commit to the speedy conclusion of a free trade agreement between our two countries,” Ruto stated.​

The proposed FTA is expected to facilitate increased market access for Kenyan products in China, particularly agricultural exports such as tea, coffee, and avocados. This move aligns with Kenya’s broader strategy to diversify its export markets and reduce trade deficits.​

New Investment Pledges and Economic Cooperation

During the Kenya-China Investor Roundtable in Beijing, President Ruto announced that seven Chinese firms had signed agreements to invest in Kenya. These companies span various sectors, including construction, apparel manufacturing, steel production, transportation, agriculture, and hospitality. Notable among them are China Wu Yi, Chongqing Shancheng Apparel Group Co. Ltd, Rongtai Steel Co. Ltd, and Hunan Conference Exhibition Group.​

“China’s private sector has been instrumental in driving Kenya’s economic growth over the years through its investments in various sectors of our economy,” Ruto remarked. “We endeavor to encourage even greater participation of China’s private sector in our journey of economic transformation, which in turn, will create thousands of jobs for our youth.”​

Infrastructure Development and the Belt and Road Initiative

Kenya has been a significant beneficiary of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with substantial investments in infrastructure projects. One of the flagship projects is the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), connecting the port city of Mombasa to Nairobi and further into the interior. Discussions are ongoing to extend the SGR to the Ugandan border, enhancing regional connectivity and trade.​

During President Ruto’s visit, the two nations signed 20 agreements covering various sectors, including science and technology, vocational education, e-commerce, water resources, intelligent transport systems, and railway development. These agreements aim to deepen cooperation and support Kenya’s development agenda.​

Agricultural Exports and the Tea Trade Center

In a bid to boost agricultural exports, President Ruto is set to inaugurate the Kenya Tea Holding Centre in Fujian Province, one of China’s major tea-growing regions. The facility aims to enhance market access and visibility for Kenyan tea in the Chinese market. The partnership involves Kenyan tea manufacturers and Benny Tea/Fujian Starchina Tea Company, focusing on equipment and technology transfer to improve the quality and competitiveness of Kenyan tea.​

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, along with the Tea Board of Kenya, is working closely with Chinese partners to ensure that Kenyan tea sold through this cooperation bears the “Produce of Kenya” mark. The target is to achieve 5 million kilograms of tea traded between both partners annually, providing a significant boost to Kenyan smallholder tea farmers.​

Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic Ties

President Ruto’s visit to China also includes meetings with President Xi Jinping and other top government officials, focusing on economic cooperation, sustainable development, and regional peace and security. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening China-Africa ties and promoting unity within the Global South.​

“We have agreed to lead the development of China-Africa relations and unity and cooperation of the Global South,” President Xi stated. This partnership is particularly significant amid a turbulent international situation, with both nations seeking to enhance their roles in global governance and economic development.​

Looking Ahead

The expedited FTA and the array of signed agreements signify a new chapter in Kenya-China relations, with both countries poised to benefit from enhanced trade, investment, and cooperation. As Kenya continues to pursue its Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, the strengthened partnership with China is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving sustainable economic growth and development.​

President Ruto’s visit underscores Kenya’s commitment to diversifying its economic partnerships and leveraging international cooperation to drive national development. The outcomes of this visit are anticipated to have long-term positive impacts on Kenya’s economy, particularly in infrastructure development, job creation, and export growth.

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photo source: Google

By: Montel Kamau

Serrari Financial Analyst

24th April, 2025