Kenya will now export tea to Tanzania after the two East African countries resolve trade disputes at their borders, impacting commerce between them.

The deal was struck on Friday by Kenya’s Trade Cabinet Secretary, Rebecca Miano, and her Tanzanian counterpart, Stephen Byabato.

Through the agreement, exports that were earlier detained at the Namanga border will now be cleared.

Conversely, Kenya will reciprocate the pact by clearing Konyagi spirit and timber at Namanga and Lunga Lunga/Horohoro border points, respectively.

In addition, the meeting also considered 14 issues, 6 from Tanzania and 8 from Kenya, and provided direction on them.

PHOTO | COURTESY: Trade Cabinet Secretary, Rebecca Miano, and her Tanzanian counterpart, Stephen Byabato.

They also discussed the holistic harmonization of levies, fees, charges, and other conditions affecting trade between the two countries.

During the meeting, Miano said Tanzanian Presidents William Ruto and Samia Suluhu affirmed their commitment to strengthening trade, investment, and economic cooperation.

“They have directed their respective trade Ministers to address all issues that affect trade with a view of enhancing trade between the two nations,” the CS said.

The Eighth Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting between the Republic of Kenya and the United Republic of Tanzania was held in Kisumu, Kenya, from March 18 to 22, 2024.

The meeting was convened to address issues affecting trade between the two nations.

The next meeting will be held in July 2024 in the United Republic of Tanzania.