Joint Statement between the EU and Kenya on the implementation of the EPA

Joint Press Statement by the European Commission Executive Vice-President and Commissioner for Trade, and the Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry of the Republic of Kenya, to reaffirm their commitment towards the implementation of the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement.

Brussels-Nairobi

Valdis Dombrovskis, European Commission Executive Vice-President and Commissioner for Trade, and H.E. Salim Mvurya, Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry of the Republic of Kenya, have reiterated their strong support for the implementation of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the European Union and the Republic of Kenya, East African Community (EAC).

The EPA represents a significant milestone in the EU-Kenya Strategic Partnership, creating new opportunities to enhance bilateral trade in goods, diversifying exports through the creation of new value chains, boosting investment flows, and strengthening economic relations between the two partners in a sustainable manner. Both the EU and the Government of Kenya are fully committed to the effective implementation of this agreement to ensure that operators and citizens on both sides benefit from its provisions.

This week, senior officials from both the EU and Kenyan government met in Nairobi to discuss the governance rules and structures necessary for the practical implementation of the agreement. These discussions focused on ensuring a robust framework to facilitate communication and cooperation between the two parties. The meeting also centered on trade and sustainable development, reflecting the shared commitment of the EU and Kenya to uphold sustainability principles enshrined in the EPA.

To further harness the benefits of the EPA, a workshop will be held on 6 September 2024 in Nairobi. Representatives from the European Commission and Kenyan authorities will engage with business and civil society groups to explore the numerous opportunities created by the agreement’s implementation.

The EU-Kenya EPA remains open for other Member States of the East African Community to join, in line with the EU and Kenya’s shared vision of promoting regional integration in Africa at both regional and continental level. The European Union and the Republic of Kenya are dedicated to working together to achieve the full potential of this partnership and to support mutual economic growth, sustainable development, and regional integration.