Kenyan exports to the United States will continue to attract only a 10 per cent tariff, the lowest rate among countries with similar export profiles, despite a new executive order signed by the US President Donald Trump introducing steep reciprocal tariffs on imports from several nations.

The directive, which is set to take effect in seven days, will impose tariffs ranging from 10 per cent to 41 per cent, significantly altering the trade landscape for many exporting countries.

However, Kenya’s trade with the United States remains shielded from the higher bands of these new duties.

“The President of the United States has signed an Executive Order introducing reciprocal tariffs on imports from several countries, with rates ranging from 10 per cent to 41 per cent. These measures are set to take effect in seven days,” the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry said in a statement issued on Friday.

The statement, issued by Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui, confirmed that Kenya’s export rate remains unchanged under the revised framework.

Read More

  1. Kenyan embassies to become trade gateways in deal with Real Sources Africa
  2. Kenya to lobby for fairer US export tariffs in upcoming Washington meeting
  3. Why Tesla is handing Elon Musk a Sh4.5 trillion share award despite a court ruling

“Kenyan exports to the U.S continue to enjoy the 10 per cent tariff, the lowest rate among nations with comparable export interests,” it noted.

Officials say the development reflects the strength and depth of the economic ties between Nairobi and Washington, built over decades of cooperation in trade, security, and investment.

“Kenya remains committed to deepening its longstanding trade and investment relationship with the U.S. The United States continues to be a key strategic partner for Kenya across various sectors, including commodity exports, digital trade, tourism, and regional security cooperation,” the Cabinet Secretary said.

While many nations now face tariff hikes on exports to the United States, Kenya’s position appears to have been bolstered by its sustained engagement with U.S. counterparts and its efforts to maintain equitable trade arrangements.

Kinyanjui reaffirmed Kenya’s diplomatic approach: “We will continue to engage constructively with U.S authorities to safeguard and grow the historical trade ties that have benefited both our countries.”

With this assurance, Kenya positions itself to preserve its competitive edge in the U.S. market, even as global trade dynamics undergo a significant recalibration.