Kenya Revives Trade Momentum with Turkey Through New Cooperation Push

Kenya has renewed its drive to deepen trade and investment ties with Turkey, following a fresh round of bilateral engagements aimed at boosting economic cooperation between the two countries. The latest negotiations, held in Nairobi and attended by senior officials from both governments, focused on expanding market access, accelerating infrastructure partnerships and increasing Turkish private-sector participation in Kenya’s manufacturing and construction industries. Kenyan authorities said the renewed outreach aligns with the country’s strategy to diversify trading partners and attract foreign investors capable of delivering large-scale commercial projects.
The revived partnership builds on a foundation laid nearly a decade ago, when Kenya and Turkey first signed key cooperation agreements to enhance trade flows and diplomatic ties. Since then, Turkey has emerged as a growing economic player with heightened interest across Africa, while Kenya has positioned itself as a competitive regional hub for investment. Turkish firms have shown significant appetite for infrastructure projects in East Africa, particularly in road construction, housing and energy. During the Nairobi discussions, technical teams revisited earlier frameworks on customs cooperation, agricultural exports and capacity-building programs intended to support Kenyan small and medium-sized enterprises. Both sides emphasised the importance of reducing trade barriers and advancing negotiations for more predictable investment conditions.
The renewed engagement has been welcomed by Kenyan businesses, who view Turkey as an increasingly valuable market for horticulture, textiles and leather products. Industry associations say greater collaboration could help local companies access new technologies, diversify export destinations and strengthen Kenya’s competitiveness in global value chains. However, trade analysts caution that Kenya must address persistent logistical challenges—including high transport costs and regulatory delays—to take full advantage of Turkish demand. Looking ahead, both governments agreed to establish follow-up working groups to oversee implementation of the agreed actions and explore new opportunities in defence cooperation, tourism promotion and green-energy investments. Officials in Nairobi say the revitalised partnership signals Kenya’s commitment to expanding its diplomatic footprint and building resilient trade relations with emerging economic powers.