On 6^th March 2025, a KEPSA delegation led by CEO Ms. Carole Kariuki held an engagement with Hon. Lee Kinyanjui, Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry. This introductory engagement focused on enhancing the business environment, fostering investments and strengthening public-private dialogue (PPD) to drive trade and economic growth.

Ms Kariuki was accompanied by Mr. Orlando Lyomu, KEPSA Director, Communication & Public Relations; Ms Susan Maingi, Chairperson, KEPSA Trade and Industry Sector Board; Ms Wambui Mbarire, Vice-Chairperson, KEPSA Trade and Industry Sector Board; Ms. Miriam Bomett, Head of Policy & Regulatory Advocacy, Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM); Mr. Graham Shaw, PPD & Thought Leadership Board Committee Member and Ms. Doris Olutende, KEPSA PPD Manager.

Discussions focused on uncertainties surrounding the (African Growth and Opportunity Act) AGOA’s renewal and shifting foreign trade policies, emphasising the need to leverage existing trade agreements to maximise opportunities. Alternatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) were highlighted as key to expanding intra-African trade, while the EU and UAE were identified as promising markets to reduce reliance on a single trading partner. KEPSA committed to raising awareness among its members on utilising these agreements to drive trade expansion and investment growth.

A significant point of discussion was the need for policy and tax predictability to ensure a stable and conducive investment climate. Hon. Kinyanjui reassured KEPSA that various government ministries are actively working to enhance consistency in tax regulations and investment policies. This effort aims to attract both local and foreign investors by fostering a reliable economic environment. KEPSA acknowledged these efforts and emphasised the importance of sustained engagement between the private sector and the government in maintaining a favourable business environment.

The meeting also underscored the importance of employing transparent and collaborative advocacy mechanisms rather than siloed efforts to promote fair market practices free from price-fixing. Additionally, discussions focused on strategies to shield locally produced goods from intensified competition due to rising imports, particularly as Africa’s trade landscape evolves. To address this, participants explored the adoption of market-driven pricing strategies that balance competitiveness with sustainability. It was unanimously agreed that ethical pricing models should be promoted to strengthen local industries while ensuring long-term economic viability.

Key takeaways included the need for continuous dialogue on policy and taxation, the strategic utilisation of regional and global trade agreements, and the promotion of fair market competition. It was also agreed that the Cabinet Secretary convene a broader engagement involving private sector industries to further discuss advancing Kenya’s trade and investment agenda.