The United States government has introduced a 10% tariff on all Kenyan exports as part of a broader trade policy aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing. The move follows an executive order signed by US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, April 2, which enforces a baseline import tariff on goods from 185 countries.

President Trump stated that the new tariffs are intended to ensure fair trade practices and strengthen American industries. However, critics argue that these measures could contribute to global economic instability.

Responding to the development, Kenya's Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs downplayed concerns, emphasizing that Kenya's tariffs remain among the lowest. He noted that the country is on the same level as the UK, Egypt, Morocco, Uganda, Tanzania, and Ethiopia in terms of trade restrictions.

He also highlighted the importance of increasing trade within Africa as a long-term solution to such external trade barriers.

This tariff policy comes at a time when Kenya is working to expand its export markets and strengthen its trade relations with key global partners.