Kenya and the United States are set to begin negotiations on a new trade agreement, signaling a shift from the previous Strategic Investment and Trade Partnership (STIP) talks under former President Joe Biden's administration. This move comes as Kenya seeks to secure its significant export market to the US amidst uncertainty regarding the extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), which is set to expire on September 30 this year.

• Kenya is pursuing a reciprocal trade agreement to ensure long-term access for its products to the US market, vital for unlocking new investments and enabling growth for US firms interested in expanding operations in Kenya.
• Trade, Industry and Investment Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui met with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, confirming the intent to pursue a new pact.
• The new negotiations reflect a potential shift towards Donald Trump's America First trade strategy, moving away from Biden-era discussions that did not yield a signed deal.