Maize field. Photo | courtesy.
The United States government is calling on Kenya to remove trade barriers that are making it difficult for American maize to access the local market.
According to U.S. officials, high import taxes and complex regulatory procedures are limiting the competitiveness of American maize in Kenya, a key market in the region.
“Kenya remains an important trading partner, but there is a need to address the challenges that hinder the fair and free flow of agricultural goods, especially maize,” U.S. trade representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer said.
The U.S. maize industry has long sought access to Kenya’s market, citing the country’s significant maize demand and periodic local shortages.
However, American exporters have faced hurdles including steep import duties, phytosanitary requirements, and what they describe as non-transparent approval processes.
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Kenya, on the other hand, has maintained that its restrictions are meant to protect local farmers and ensure food safety standards.
The push by Washington comes as the two countries continue negotiations under the U.S.-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP), which aims to deepen trade ties and create more balanced access to each other’s markets.
If Kenya agrees to ease the restrictions, it could pave the way for increased U.S. maize exports and reshape the dynamics of the country’s grain supply chain.
