Nairobi: The 10th meeting of the India–Kenya Joint Trade Committee in Nairobi in April marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral economic ties, with both nations engaging in comprehensive discussions aimed at expanding trade and deepening cooperation.

The meeting was co-chaired by India’s Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal and Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Akoth Ombam, reflecting high-level commitment on both sides. Deliberations focused on enhancing market access, addressing tariff and non-tariff barriers, and strengthening collaboration across key sectors including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, digital public infrastructure, fintech, energy and manufacturing.

Beyond trade facilitation, the dialogue also reviewed progress in development partnerships, particularly in logistics, infrastructure planning and capacity building. This broader approach signals a shift towards building long-term economic ecosystems rather than limiting engagement to transactional trade flows.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a more diversified, balanced and future-oriented economic partnership. They agreed to strengthen institutional mechanisms to facilitate trade, resolve outstanding issues and promote greater business-to-business engagement, ensuring that cooperation remains both structured and sustainable.

A key outcome of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) on the exchange of pre-arrival information for goods. The agreement is expected to enhance customs cooperation, enable faster clearances, improve risk management and facilitate smoother bilateral trade.

The broader diplomatic engagement also saw renewed parliamentary cooperation. India’s High Commissioner to Kenya, H.E. Adarsh Swaika, met with Kenya’s National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula to advance dialogue through institutional channels, reinforcing the depth and continuity of the bilateral relationship.