
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 02: U.S. President Donald Trump holds up a chart while speaking during a โMake America Wealthy Againโ trade announcement event in the Rose Garden at the White House on April 2, 2025 in Washington, DC. Touting the event as โLiberation Dayโ, Trump is expected to announce additional tariffs targeting goods imported to the U.S. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Trade CS Lee Kinyanjui is here to explain how Kenya can benefit from Trump’s reciprocal tariffs. That’s right, we’re talking about the 10% tariffs imposed on Kenyan exports by the United States and the golden opportunity they present for the country to expand its market.
In a recent statement, the CS highlighted that while these tariffs may pose challenges, they also pave the way for Kenya to boost its exports of textile products globally, especially in the United States where the demand for such goods is soaring.
“The 10% export tariffs faced by Kenya are peanuts compared to the hefty tariffs slapped on its textile exporting competitors like Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, China, Pakistan, and India.“
Kinyanjui emphasized the need for increased investment in the industry to attract businesses looking for alternatives to countries with sky-high tariffs. He sees this as a chance for Kenya to shine on the global stage by harnessing its resources, workforce, and strategic vision. By diversifying exports beyond the current sectors and manufacturing goods that are pricier in countries with higher tariffs, Kenya can emerge as a powerhouse in the trade game.

The CS also warned of potential cost hikes for Kenyan exports and assured that the ministry is working hand in hand with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to encourage more investment in the country. This collaborative effort aims to bolster Kenya’s exports and ensure economic stability in the face of these tariffs.Kinyanjui believes in Kenya’s resilience and ability to adapt to major economic shifts.

He calls for ramped-up investment in infrastructure, technology, and skills development to counter the impact of the tariffs. By prioritizing key sectors and streamlining logistics, Kenya can navigate through these turbulent times and build a more self-sufficient economy.In a nutshell, the new tariffs signed by President Trump are expected to shake up the trade landscape, affecting countries across Africa.