Kenyan manufacturers are being encouraged to explore export opportunities in the European Union following the launch of a new catalogue outlining products and services available from the country.
The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), in collaboration with government and private sector stakeholders, launched the 2026 Kenya-EU EPA Export Catalogue at the Serena Hotel in Nairobi. The publication identifies export-ready products across several sectors and provides contacts to help European buyers connect with Kenyan suppliers.
The launch comes as manufacturers seek to take advantage of the Kenya-European Union Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which took effect on 1 July 2024 and provides duty-free, quota-free access for Kenyan goods to the EU market, subject to the agreement’s applicable requirements.
The European market offers opportunities for Kenyan producers of manufactured goods, processed foods, fish and fishery products, construction materials, textiles and packaging. The Catalogue also covers professional services and includes contacts for relevant sector associations.
Speaking at the launch, Michael Mandu, Secretary for Trade, said the government was committed to helping manufacturers benefit from the market access provided under the agreement.
He said the Catalogue would help businesses identify products with export potential and connect with European buyers.
Hitesh Mediratta, Chairman of the KAM Board, said manufacturers would need to remain competitive and meet international standards to expand their presence in export markets.
He said Kenya had the potential to develop into a manufacturing and sourcing hub, but businesses would need to supply high-quality, sustainable and reliable products at competitive prices.
Erik Thomas Johnson, General Manager at Danish Industries East Africa (Emerging Markets), said the Catalogue could help manufacturers identify European buyers and diversify their export markets.
However, Tobias Alando, KAM Chief Executive, said preferential market access alone would not guarantee increased exports. He pointed to manufacturing costs, infrastructure reliability and industrial productivity as factors that would influence the ability of Kenyan businesses to compete internationally.
Kenya exported goods worth USD 1.85 billion to Europe in 2024, according to figures cited at the launch. The new Catalogue is intended to make it easier for potential buyers to identify Kenyan suppliers, although manufacturers will still need to meet relevant product standards and market requirements to secure export contracts.
The extent to which the publication translates into higher exports will depend on manufacturers’ ability to meet demand, maintain competitive prices and establish lasting relationships with buyers in the European Union.
– By John Murunga
