India Kenya Trade Hits USD 4.31 Billion as Both Nations Push for Deeper Economic Cooperation in Nairobi Talks

Joint Trade Committee reviews progress in key sectors including pharmaceuticals, energy, infrastructure and digital payments

Nairobi, April 29, 2026: The 10th India–Kenya Joint Trade Committee meeting was held in Nairobi on April 27 and 28, where both countries reviewed the progress of bilateral economic relations and explored new areas of cooperation to further strengthen trade and investment ties.

During the meeting, officials from India and Kenya noted a steady rise in trade, with India emerging as one of Kenya’s most significant trading partners. Total bilateral trade reached USD 4.31 billion in 2025–26, reflecting a growth of nearly 25 percent compared to the previous year.

The discussions were co chaired by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal from India and Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Akotah Ombam from Kenya. Both sides focused on expanding trade diversification and resolving market access challenges while identifying new opportunities in sectors such as engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and electronics.

The committee also reviewed ongoing cooperation frameworks, including agreements between standards bodies and customs authorities aimed at improving regulatory coordination and easing trade procedures. Another agreement between industry organisations was signed to promote greater business collaboration and investment flows.

Both nations explored the possibility of using local currency based settlement systems to simplify transactions, noting progress in banking arrangements involving special rupee accounts to support smoother trade flows.

Key sectoral discussions included India’s support for infrastructure development in Kenya, particularly in railways, renewable energy projects and shipbuilding. Cooperation in pharmaceuticals and affordable medical supplies was also highlighted as a major area of engagement.

In addition, both sides discussed collaboration in digital public infrastructure, financial technology solutions, capacity building programmes and education exchange initiatives to strengthen long term economic ties.

Officials reaffirmed their commitment to building a more diversified and forward looking economic partnership, with a focus on increasing business to business engagement and resolving outstanding trade issues through institutional mechanisms.