Kenya’s trade with the United Kingdom has reached an all-time high, surpassing the Ksh.340 billion (£2 billion) mark for the first time, boosted by a strong rise in exports of agricultural products, tea, coffee, and services.
Highlights
- Total Kenya-UK trade rose 11.9% to hit Ksh.340 billion by September 2025.
- Kenyan exports to the UK grew by 14%, driven by farm produce and beverages.
- UK exports to Kenya increased by 8%, led by machinery, oil, and cars.
- Over 150 British firms operate in Kenya, employing 250,000 Kenyans.
- Both nations target to double trade by 2030 under a renewed partnership.
Main Story
Trade Crosses Ksh.340 Billion Milestone
Kenya and the United Kingdom have recorded their strongest trade performance in history, crossing the Ksh.340 billion (£2 billion) mark in combined goods and services.
According to data from the UK Department for Business and Trade, total trade between the two countries grew by 11.9% in the year ending September 2025, reflecting a steady post-pandemic recovery and deepening economic collaboration.
Kenya’s Exports on the Rise
Kenya’s exports to the UK rose sharply, reaching Ksh.63 billion (£371 million) in goods and Ksh.71.5 billion (£421 million) in services. The biggest contributors were animal and vegetable products, which jumped by 15.6%, and beverages mainly coffee and tea up 12.8%.
The report credited this growth to increased market access and Kenya’s efforts to diversify its export base.
UK Exports Grow as Well
The UK, on the other hand, exported Ksh.134.6 billion (£792 million) worth of goods and services to Kenya, compared to Ksh.124 billion (£733 million) in 2024.
Key export categories included mechanical power generators (up 18.3%), refined oil (up 12%), and cars (up 10%).
Leaders Applaud Partnership
Trade PS Regina Ombam hailed the data as proof that Kenya’s export strategy is paying off. “We are propelling our export growth, targeting product range and market destination diversity,” she said, noting that the sustained collaboration with the UK will strengthen Kenya’s trade resilience.
Dr. Ed Barnett, Chargé d’Affaires at the British High Commission in Nairobi, said the renewed UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership, signed in July 2025, aims to double trade volumes by 2030.
“The UK and Kenya are turbocharging trade. We’re breaking down trade barriers together we go far when we go together,” he said.
UK’s Investment Footprint in Kenya
The UK remains one of Kenya’s largest foreign investors, with around 150 British companies currently operating in the country. These firms collectively employ over 250,000 Kenyans, making the UK a vital partner in Kenya’s economic landscape.
