This archive report was first published on 10 July 2021.
Kenya and Tanzania manufacturers are calling for the swift resolution of non-tariff barriers and a review of the East African Community Common External Tariff to address unsatisfactory trade levels in recent years.
According to data, Kenya's exports to Tanzania declined from $342.9 million (Sh37 billion) in 2016 to $294.9 million (Sh32 billion) in 2020, while its exports to the rest of the world grew from $5.7 billion (Sh615 billion) in 2016 to $6.02 billion (Sh650 billion) in 2020.
On the other hand, Tanzania's exports to Kenya increased from $126.2 million (Sh13.6 billion) in 2016 to $258.2 million (Sh27.8 billion) in 2020, while its exports to the world grew from $4.4 billion (Sh475 billion) in 2016 to $5.2 billion (Sh561 billion) in 2020.
Speaking at a trade investment forum in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, Kenya's High Commissioner to Tanzania Dan Kazungu emphasized the importance of eliminating trade barriers to boost trade between the two countries.
“The visit by Her Excellency the President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu, marked a new dawn in the relationship between Kenya and Tanzania,” he said. “Let us take advantage of this enhanced friendship to resolve outstanding non-tariff barriers that hinder trade between the two countries. A win for our community means prosperity for us all.”
