By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, May 01, 2026 - Kenyan exporters targeting the Chinese market have been urged to strictly adhere to export regulations and requirements as China officially implements a zero-tariff policy.
In a statement, Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui said that exporters should first ensure that they register with Kenyan authorities and China’s customs agency to ensure a seamless export process.
Businesspeople are required to secure the necessary licences and meet sanitary and phytosanitary standards to qualify. Exporters must also ensure their products are labelled in Chinese and comply with periodic inspections where applicable.
The CS has also urged exporters to always provide complete shipment documentation, including a commercial invoice, certificate of origin, export permits, health certificates, and related customs documents.
“Government institutions are working closely with exporters to ensure they are certified, market-ready, and well-positioned to access the Chinese market. Efforts are also underway to streamline certification and customs processes to ensure that zero tariffs are matched by seamless market access,” Kinyanjui stated.
The move to scrap tariffs on Kenyan products was part of trade agreements that were secured by President William Ruto during his state visit to China in 2025, at the invitation of China's President Xi Jinping.
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China’s duty-free and quota-free policy for African goods primarily benefited the least developed countries, leaving developing nations like Kenya initially excluded. However, Kenya initiated talks to secure a trade arrangement that would see Kenya benefit from the policy.
Approximately 98.2 percent of Kenyan exports are set to benefit from the Kenya-China Early Harvest Agreement. Tea, coffee, avocados, macadamia nuts, and fresh horticultural produce exporters will be the biggest beneficiaries of the policy.
Mineral exports, including titanium ores, zirconium, and manganese, are also expected to benefit, as well as value-added goods such as leather, natural resins, and processed agricultural products.
Kenya's trade with China has grown significantly over the years, but remains in China's favour. In 2025, imports from China stood at USD 5.19 billion, while exports to China were approximately USD 130.68 million, resulting in a trade deficit exceeding USD 5.06 billion,” the CS stated.