Kenya Responds After Trump Extends AGOA Trade Benefits

Kenya’s government has welcomed the decision by the United States House of Representatives to pass a Bill that extends the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), for a further three years, saying this gives a huge impetus to the country’s trade relationship with the U.S.

The act is such a huge lifeline, as it provides a huge opportunity for the textile and cloth industry, which relies heavily on the U.S. market.

The Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry said the move marks an important milestone in U.S.–Africa trade relations, easing uncertainty that had previously clouded investment decisions within export-oriented industries.

The government noted that the renewal restores confidence among investors and manufacturers who had adopted a cautious approach amid fears of AGOA’s expiry.

The ministry said in a statement dated January 14, 2026, that, “The uncertainty that had previously engulfed the sector will now give way to renewed confidence and expansion.”

The ministry made the remarks after the U.S. House of Representatives reached a decision, which gives the country an opportunity to improve on the gains made through the trade framework.

Boost for Textile and Apparel Sector

The textile and apparel industry operating within Kenya’s Export Processing Zones (EPZs) is among the biggest beneficiaries of the AGOA extension.

According to the ministry, the sector currently employs over 80,000 people directly and supports an additional 250,000 jobs indirectly.

These jobs span manufacturing, logistics, transport, and auxiliary services linked to export production.

Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry, Hon. Lee Kinyanjui, EGH, said the extension secures livelihoods while safeguarding one of Kenya’s most successful export industries.

He noted that duty-free access to the U.S. market has been instrumental in positioning Kenya as a leading apparel exporter in sub-Saharan Africa.

Also Read: EXPLAINER: How AGOA Benefits Kenya and Other African Countries

Push for Diversification of Exports beyond Textile

Aside from the textiles sector, the government made clear its intent to diversify the export commodities of Kenya through the AGOA.

Through Lee Kinyanjui, the ministry noted that, “The ministry seeks to develop exports of other products so that the country fully takes advantage of this opportunity to create jobs and wealth.”

Some of the important exports that are traded between Kenya and the United States of America are textiles and apparel, coffee, tea, fresh produce, and tourism.

Further expansion of market access in these markets continues to be an important item on the nation’s economic agenda.

Also Read: Why Kenya is Ranked Africa’s Most Competitive Economy

U.S.–Kenya Trade Talks and Strategic Agenda

The AGOA extension also comes against the backdrop of ongoing discussions on a potential bilateral trade agreement between Kenya and the United States.

The ministry confirmed that talks are underway to cover other key sectors and further cement the long-standing partnership between the two countries.

During President William Ruto’s recent visit to Washington, D.C., Kenya’s request for enhanced access to the U.S. market featured prominently in high-level engagements.

According to Lee Kinyanjui, these talks are in line with the Kenyan strategy of diversifying its exports while further integrating with its major export market.

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