AGOA extension: Kenya set to retain duty-free US market access until 2028

Kenya has secured duty-free access to the United States market through December 31, 2028, after the US Senate approved an extension of the Africa Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA). The government expressed satisfaction with the decision, stating that it would provide greater predictability for Kenyan manufacturers and exporters.

The extension will be particularly beneficial for Kenya's apparel sector, which currently accounts for 70% of the country's total exports to the US. The extension guarantees Kenyan enterprises continued exports of thousands of product lines to the US without tariff barriers. The government also welcomed provisions allowing exporters to seek refunds for duties paid during the gap following AGOA's previous expiration.

The sector supports over 66,000 direct jobs, according to the Ministry. AGOA also supports agricultural exports, including cut flowers, tea, coffee, and macadamia nuts. The renewed certainty will help local manufacturers increase production capacity and diversify Kenya's export portfolio. The government urged the private sector to take advantage of this preferential market access to the world's largest consumer market.