Today, Maroš Šefčovič, EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, and Hon. Lee Kinyanjui, Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry of Kenya, chaired the first meeting of the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) Council in Nairobi. Less than a year after it came into force, the EPA Council reaffirmed the importance of bilateral trade relations between the EU and Kenya and discussed ways to strengthen this relationship in the future.

The EPA Council agreed that during times of geopolitical uncertainty and volatility in the international trading system, the EPA provides predictability and reliability to traders and investors as it represents a shared commitment to rule-based trade. It also creates opportunities to enhance bilateral trade in goods, diversify exports through the creation of new value chains, boost investment flows, and strengthen economic relations between the two partners in a sustainable manner.

During the meeting, the ministers focused on addressing bilateral trade issues and agreed to initiate negotiations on the Protocol on rules of origin in line with the Joint Statement of the Parties on Rules of Origin annexed to the EPA. They also explored sectors of mutual interest for future cooperation.

To further harness the benefits of the EPA, representatives from the EU and Kenyan authorities will engage with business and society to capitalize on the opportunities offered by the Agreement. The EU and Kenya remain committed to working together to achieve the full potential of this partnership and to support mutual economic growth, sustainable development, and regional integration.