NAIROBI, Kenya- Bilateral trade between Kenya and China surged to a record high in the first quarter of 2025, underlining the growing strength of economic ties between the two nations.
Official figures released by China’s General Administration of Customs on Tuesday showed that total goods trade between the two countries hit 16.13 billion yuan (approximately USD 2.24 billion), an 11.9% increase compared to the same period last year. The jump marks the sixth consecutive quarter of growth in Kenya-China trade.
The data revealed a steady rise in trade volumes on both sides. China’s exports to Kenya rose by 11.8%, while Kenyan exports to China grew by 13.2%—a sign of growing demand for Kenyan products in the Asian powerhouse.
Since establishing diplomatic relations over 60 years ago, China and Kenya have steadily broadened their cooperation across various sectors. Their partnership was upgraded to a comprehensive strategic cooperative relationship in 2017.
Today, China remains Kenya’s largest trading partner and top source of imports. Conversely, Kenya is China’s leading trade partner in East Africa.
Analysts say the growing trade relationship is having a real-world impact. From Chinese-made construction machinery and home appliances supporting Kenya’s development, to Kenyan avocados and tea making their way into Chinese households, the benefits are being felt on both sides.
The deepening partnership comes at a time when Kenya is looking to boost its export capacity and attract more foreign investment, while China continues to expand its footprint across Africa through trade, infrastructure, and diplomatic engagements.
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