The European Union and Kenya are set to announce a trade deal on Monday (19 June), EU officials said, in a coup for Brussels as it seeks deeper economic ties with Africa.
Negotiations for the agreement are due to formally conclude at a ceremony in Nairobi attended by President William Ruto, his Trade Minister Moses Kuria, and EU Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis.
Once entered into force, the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) will give Kenya tariff-free access to the EU, its biggest market where it sends roughly one-fifth of all its exports.
These are mainly agricultural products such as the country’s famous tea and coffee, and 70% of its flowers.
Kenya will gradually open its markets but exclude a range of sensitive products, said Dombrovskis, who said it was a “momentous day” for the two countries.
“This puts us firmly on a path towards a privileged relationship, based on trust, rules and mutual opportunity,” he told reporters on Sunday, ahead of the formal announcement.
