Kenya-Tanzania trade ties strengthened as key exports resume at Namanga border

Business
By David Njaaga | Mar 22, 2024
Investments, Trade and Industry, Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano (centre) with her Tanzanian counterpart Stephen Byabato and other officials in Kisumu.[Standard, File]

Kenya and Tanzania have announced the resumption of key exports and the clearance of previously detained goods at the Namanga border.

The breakthrough was achieved during the Eighth Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting, which began on March 18 and concluded today, March 22, in Kisumu.

The meeting was co-chaired by Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry, Rebecca Miano and her Tanzanian counterpart, Stephen Byabato.

The leaders agreed on the resumption of tea exports to Tanzania, the clearance of Konyagi spirit at Namanga, and the clearance of timber at the Lunga Lunga/Horohoro border point.

The meeting addressed a total of 14 issues, six pertaining to Tanzania and eight to Kenya.

Among the issues discussed were the holistic harmonisation of levies, fees, charges and other conditions affecting trade between the two countries.

The meeting also resolved to enhance the monitoring and reporting mechanisms for the agreed areas of commitment.

The next meeting is scheduled for July 2024 in Tanzania.

Miano said Presidents William Ruto and Samia Suluhu had reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen trade, investment and economic cooperation.

"They have directed their respective trade ministers to address all issues that affect trade with a view to enhancing trade between the two nations," said Miano.

Share this story
KTDA appoints Francis Miano acting CEO
KTDA appoints Eng Francis Miano as acting Chief Executive Officer effective January 16, replacing Wilson Muthaura, who proceeds on terminal leave.
Trump tariff threat casts long shadow over Kenya-Iran trade
Countries conducting business with the Islamic Republic risk being slapped with a 25 per cent tariff.
World Bank unlocks Sh5.5b green fund for local SMEs
The funds are available to entrepreneurs in electric mobility and transport, energy-efficient and green buildings, sustainable agriculture, and waste management solutions.
How KQ's fortunes sank
At the heart of Captain Mabura's “Phoenix Plan” is diversifying revenue streams by transforming KQ from a basic airline to an aviation industrial hub through partnerships with US industry giants.
Kenya secures landmark zero-duty trade deal with China
The government has confirmed that it has secured a preliminary trade agreement with China that will allow 98.2 per cent of its goods to enter the Chinese market duty-free.
.
RECOMMENDED NEWS