Kenya’s trade with the United Kingdom has reached a historic high of Sh340 billion in 2024, marking an 11.9 percent increase compared to the previous year. The surge was fueled by growing exports and imports between the two nations, solidifying the UK’s position as one of Kenya’s top trading partners. Data from the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry and the British High Commission in Nairobi show that UK exports to Kenya grew by 8 percent, while Kenyan exports to the UK increased by 14 percent, signaling renewed confidence in the bilateral trade relationship.
During the period under review, Kenya exported goods worth Sh63 billion and services worth Sh71.5 billion to the UK. The agricultural sector remained a key driver, with animal and vegetable products rising by 15.6 percent to Sh28.7 billion, while beverages such as tea and coffee grew by 12.8 percent to Sh24.3 billion. These gains reflect Kenya’s continued strength as a leading exporter of high-quality agricultural produce to European markets, supported by government-led initiatives promoting value addition and sustainable farming practices.
Conversely, UK exports to Kenya rose to Sh134.6 billion, up from Sh124 billion the previous year. Among the top export categories were mechanical power generators, which surged 18.3 percent, refined oil products up by 12 percent, and motor vehicles increasing by 10 percent. The growth demonstrates Kenya’s expanding demand for high-value industrial and energy equipment, in line with its industrialization and infrastructure modernization agenda.
British Chargé d’Affaires Dr. Ed Barnett praised the deepening partnership, noting that the Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership is delivering tangible outcomes. “The UK and Kenya are turbocharging trade. Our renewed Strategic Partnership is already delivering progress in a matter of months. We’re working together to break down trade barriers. We go far when we go together,” he said, reaffirming Britain’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s trade and investment ambitions.
Trade Principal Secretary Regina Ombam highlighted that the surge in trade reflects Kenya’s readiness as a trade destination and the success of sustained government interventions. These include trade diplomacy missions, export promotion campaigns, and efforts to align local production standards with international benchmarks. She emphasized that the government remains committed to creating a favorable investment climate through infrastructure improvements, policy stability, and public-private partnerships.
Ombam added that Kenya’s future focus is on expanding its export base through value addition, branding, and global marketing of locally made goods. By enhancing competitiveness and diversifying exports, Kenya aims to consolidate its position as a regional trade hub and attract more foreign investors. With trade between Kenya and the UK at record levels, both countries are poised to deepen their economic cooperation, reinforcing Kenya’s image as a reliable and globally connected trading partner.
