Kenya zero-tariff exports to China begin at Nairobi Terminus

Kenya zero-tariff exports to China have begun. The first consignment has been sent to China under the new zero-tariff access framework.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and China’s Vice President Han Zheng flagged off the shipment. The ceremony took place at Nairobi Terminus. Senior government officials also attended.

Kenya zero-tariff exports to China and the first shipment

Also, the cargo moved on the Madaraka Express Freight Service. It included avocado oil, frozen avocados, coffee and pet pallets. In addition, the shipment highlighted Kenya’s effort to broaden its agricultural export portfolio. It also reflected a push for more value-added products.

Meanwhile, Kenya Railways operates the Madaraka Express Freight Service. The service provides daily containerised and bulk cargo transport. It runs between the Port of Mombasa, Nairobi and Naivasha. At the same time, it supports logistics along the Northern Corridor.

Don’t miss…Freight Shinkansen puts Japan’s bullet train to cargo use

Early Harvest Agreement and Kenya-China bilateral trade

The consignment was the first to move under a preferential trade framework. It allows selected African goods to enter the Chinese market without tariffs. Separately, the arrangement is part of the Early Harvest Agreement. It is intended to expand market access for African exporters. It also aims to strengthen economic cooperation between China and partner countries.

Still, officials said the zero-tariff arrangement is expected to create new opportunities. Those opportunities are for Kenyan exporters. It is also expected to lower trade barriers. For example, it is expected to improve access. That access is to one of the world’s largest consumer markets.

Officials at the Nairobi flag-off ceremony

Those at the ceremony included:

• Davis Chirchir, Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport
• Lee Kinyanjui, Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry
• Regina Ombam, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Trade
• Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Transport
• Philip J. Mainga, Kenya Railways Managing Director

Other government representatives also attended.

Also, the leaders said stronger trade and investment ties could help increase export volumes. In addition, they said the arrangement could support economic growth and industrial development.

Meanwhile, the ceremony formed part of Vice President Han Zheng’s official visit to Kenya. The visit is aimed at deepening bilateral relations. Separately, it is aimed at exploring further cooperation in trade, infrastructure and investment.

In addition, the initiative reflects broader engagement under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation framework. The framework seeks to advance economic partnership and development across the continent. Still, the zero-tariff export programme is expected to improve Kenya’s global trade competitiveness. Also, it is expected to strengthen rail-based cargo links between production zones and international markets.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: