National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has welcomed Kenya’s new trade agreement with China, calling it a game-changer for the country’s economy and a golden opportunity for local entrepreneurs.
The trade pact, unveiled during President William Ruto’s recent state visit to Beijing, eliminates tariffs and taxes on Kenyan exports to China. Wetang’ula said the deal opens up one of the world’s largest consumer markets to Kenyan products, creating fresh opportunities for growth, especially in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
Speaking to congregants during a church service in Lugari on Sunday, June 15, 2025, the Speaker emphasized the long-term benefits of the agreement. He said Kenyan farmers, manufacturers, and service providers stand to gain significantly from easier access to Chinese markets.
“This is a historic moment for Kenya. The removal of tariffs and taxes on our exports to China opens up vast markets for our farmers, manufacturers, and service providers,” Wetang’ula stated.
He specifically noted that agricultural exports like tea, coffee, flowers, and fruits will now reach Chinese consumers more easily.
“This agreement not only benefits individual businesses but also strengthens our national economy by promoting trade and investment,” he added.
Wetang’ula urged Kenyan entrepreneurs, especially the youth, to seize the opportunity and expand their businesses beyond national borders. He said the removal of trade barriers gives local producers a chance to compete globally.
He also stressed the importance of national unity in making the agreement a success.
“For this agreement to yield its full potential, we must work together as a nation. Unity among leaders and citizens is essential to harness the benefits of this trade deal,” he remarked.
Calling on lawmakers to lead by example, Wetang’ula encouraged them to set aside political differences and focus on development-oriented policies.
“As legislators, we have a responsibility to foster an environment conducive to development. This means setting aside political differences and focusing on policies that promote the welfare of all Kenyans,” he said.
Wetangula’s remarks come in the wake of Kenya securing over Ksh126 billion in investment deals aimed at driving projects under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
The funding includes Ksh41.4 billion for manufacturing, Ksh55.6 billion for agriculture, and Ksh29.7 billion for other strategic sectors. These investments are expected to fuel job creation, boost productivity, and improve living standards across the country.
This growing economic collaboration is part of China’s broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), launched by President Xi Jinping in 2013. The BRI seeks to strengthen China’s global influence through infrastructure and trade investments.
Kenya has emerged as a key BRI partner in Africa, receiving major funding from China for critical infrastructure. One standout project is the construction of a modern railway connecting the port of Mombasa to the interior, a vital development expected to enhance trade and regional connectivity.
