Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted that the trade relations between Kenya and the UK won’t be affected by UK’s departure from the European Commission (EU), set to materialize on March 2019. Negotiations are still ongoing surrounding UK’s divorce from the economic and political union-which has grown to be a single market-that began after World War two to foster economic development and cooperation, and this has led to fears in some nations of the trade implications that may be caused. “As we leave the EU, we are committed to a smooth transition that will ensure continuity in our trading relationship with Kenya ensuring Kenya retains duty-free quota and access to the UK market and building on our strong trade and investment ties to create more opportunities for our businesses and consumers,” said May.
Speaking to the press at State House, the two leaders expressed satisfaction with the trade relationship between the two countries, and President Kenyatta supported her sentiment that Brexit won’t be ‘detrimental’ to the trade ties. “Britain is and has been our largest trading partner for a long time and one of the largest investors. I don’t believe Brexit is going to dent the ability to further strengthen and deepen both trade and investment between the two countries,” said President Kenyatta.
He noted that not only will Kenya seek to boost trade ties, but all countries working under the Commonwealth umbrella will see how they can utilize the organization to improve fair trade. The UK Prime Minister said they want to enhance trading relationships outside the EU, “We have the opportunity to negotiate trade deals on behalf of the UK rather than as part of the EU,” she said.