Total trade between Kenya and the United Kingdom has exceeded Sh340 billion (£2.1 billion) for the first time, marking a historic high in the economic relationship between the two nations. According to data released on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, by Kenya's Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry and the British High Commission in Nairobi, the total value of goods and services traded in the year ending September 2025 grew by 11.9% compared to the previous year.

This growth was significantly propelled by a 14% increase in Kenyan exports to the UK, while UK exports to Kenya rose by 8%. In total, Kenya exported goods worth Sh63 billion and services valued at Sh71.5 billion during this period. Conversely, the UK exported goods and services worth Sh134.6 billion, an increase from Sh124 billion in the corresponding period in 2024.

Key Export Drivers

Analysis of the trade data reveals that Kenya's agricultural sector remains a primary driver of its export success. Animal and vegetable products recorded the fastest growth, rising by 15.6% to Sh28.7 billion. This was closely followed by beverages, including key commodities like coffee and tea, which saw a 12.8% increase to Sh24.3 billion. These figures highlight the continued importance of traditional Kenyan exports in the UK market.

On the import side, the leading UK exports to Kenya were mechanical power generators, which saw an 18.3% growth. Other significant imports included refined oil and cars, which grew by 12% and 10% respectively.

Strategic Partnership and Future Outlook

This trade milestone comes in the wake of a renewed Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership for 2025–2030, which was formalized during President William Ruto's visit to London in July 2025. The partnership aims to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, climate action, technology, and security. A central ambition of the agreement is to double the current trade volumes by the year 2030.

Officials from both nations have lauded the recent figures as a clear indicator of a strengthening economic alliance. Dr. Ed Barnett, Chargé d'Affaires at the British High Commission in Nairobi, stated that the two countries are "turbocharging trade" and working together to break down barriers. Trade Principal Secretary Regina Ombam echoed these sentiments, noting that the statistics underscore a "robust and expanding economic partnership" that enhances trade opportunities and economic resilience for both sides.

The post-Brexit Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), ratified in March 2021, has been a key facilitator of this growth, providing Kenyan goods with duty-free access to the UK market. This has been particularly beneficial for large agribusinesses dealing in flowers and vegetables. However, challenges remain for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in navigating logistics and meeting UK market standards.

Looking ahead, the renewed strategic partnership is expected to unlock further investments, including the establishment of a regional underwriting hub by Lloyd's of London in Nairobi, positioning Kenya as a financial gateway to East Africa. The UK remains one of Kenya's largest foreign investors, with around 150 British companies operating in the country, employing over 250,000 Kenyans.