Record-breaking exports, strategic diplomacy, and trade facilitation drive unprecedented growth in bilateral ties
NAIROBI/ISLAMABAD, JUL 3 /DNA/ – In a landmark achievement for Pakistan-Kenya economic relations, bilateral trade has surpassed the US$1 billion mark for the first time in history, reaching US$1.023 billion, official figures confirmed today.
Pakistan’s exports to Kenya soared to an all-time high of US$434.7 million during the just-concluded fiscal year 2025/26—the highest ever recorded in the history of bilateral trade between the two nations.
This remarkable milestone underscores the growing strength of Pakistan-Kenya trade relations and reflects the unwavering efforts of the Commercial Section at the High Commission of Pakistan in Nairobi. The Commercial Counselor’s tireless engagement with Kenyan government institutions, Chambers of Commerce, trade organizations, and private sector stakeholders has continued to unlock new opportunities for Pakistani exporters.
Over the past two years, a series of strategic initiatives have laid the groundwork for this record performance:
Trade Delegations & Exhibitions: Pakistan organized merit-based delegations and facilitated participation in five major trade exhibitions in Pakistan—including FoodAg, HEMS, PATDC, TEXPO, and WHX—arranged by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP). Kenyan importers signed deals worth millions of US dollars on the spot across these platforms.
Customs Valuation Breakthrough: The Trade Mission successfully lobbied the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for a reduction in customs valuation on Pakistani rice—from US$615 to US$450—significantly enhancing the competitiveness of Pakistani rice in the Kenyan market.
Pharmaceutical Sector Expansion: Over 35 Pakistani pharmaceutical companies have been inspected and registered by Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board, opening a major new avenue for healthcare exports.
Institutional Milestones: The second Pakistan-Kenya Joint Trade Committee (JTC) was successfully convened—the first-ever physical JTC meeting—while negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement with the East African Community (EAC) remain actively in process.
Geographical Indication Progress: The ongoing Basmati rice geographical indication (GI) case continues to be a significant development, with Pakistani officials expressing optimism for a favorable outcome, InshaAllah.
With bilateral trade crossing the billion-dollar threshold and exports hitting historic highs, officials on both sides see immense potential for further growth. The Commercial Section of the High Commission of Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade ties, facilitating market access, and exploring new sectors for collaboration.
“This is not just a number—it is a reflection of the trust, partnership, and shared prosperity between Pakistan and Kenya,” a senior Pakistani trade official said. “We are confident that this momentum will continue to build in the years ahead.”
