This archive report was first published on 21 September 2019.
Published on September 21, 2019, Kenya is hoping to seal a post-Brexit trade agreement with the United Kingdom by the start of next year, to create continuity in market access.
Kenya's High Commissioner to the UK, Manoah Esipisu, says he expects a post-Brexit agreement to borrow a leaf from one already signed by southern African countries, besides sealing investment agreements.
Speaking at the Annual Kenya Society Reception in London, Mr. Esipisu said, 'This (Brexit) is a matter for the United Kingdom and all we can say is, 'Get on with it'. Business does not love uncertainty.'
He added, 'We have assurances this (market access) will continue (after Brexit), but would welcome a signed instrument such as the one between the UK and the Southern African Customs Union plus Mozambique.'
The UK plans to leave the European Union on October 31, three years after it voted to leave the bloc in what is popularly known as Brexit.
Under the EU, Kenya accessed UK markets on duty-free, quota-free arrangements as part of the deal signed with the bloc to enable continued privileged export of fresh farm produce like flowers and fruits.
Kenya is targeting a similar arrangement and wants to use the UK-Africa Summit of January 2020 in London to seal a comprehensive trade agreement that will fill the gap of post-Brexit.
Trade value between Kenya and the UK reached Sh140 billion, with Kenya exporting cut flowers and other fresh produce.
