Trade between Kenya and the United Kingdom has reached a new record high, crossing the Sh340 billion mark for the first time, according to new data from the UK Department for Business and Trade.
The figures released on October 31, 2025, show that total trade in goods and services between the two countries rose to Sh340 billion (£2.1 billion) in the year ending September 2025 — an 11.9 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
The growth was boosted by an 8 percent rise in UK exports to Kenya and a 14 percent jump in Kenyan exports to the UK.
Kenya exported goods worth Sh63 billion (£371 million) and services worth Sh71.5 billion (£421 million) over the period.
Among the top-performing exports were animal and vegetable products, which grew by 15.6 percent to Sh28.7 billion (£169.2 million). Coffee and tea exports also increased, rising by 12.8 percent to Sh24.3 billion (£143.3 million).
On the other hand, the UK exported goods and services worth Sh134.6 billion (£792 million) to Kenya, up from Sh124 billion (£733 million) the previous year.
The report shows that mechanical power generators recorded the highest growth at 18.3 percent, while refined oil and motor vehicles grew by 12 percent and 10 percent respectively.
British High Commission Chargé d’Affaires Dr. Ed Barnett said the two countries are strengthening their trade ties under a renewed Strategic Partnership agreement. He added that both sides aim to double current trade volumes by 2030.
“The UK and Kenya are turbocharging trade. Our renewed Strategic Partnership is already delivering progress. We’re working together to break down trade barriers,” Dr. Barnett said.
Principal Secretary for Trade, Regina Ombam, welcomed the latest figures, saying they reflect a strong and expanding economic relationship.
She noted that continued collaboration will help diversify Kenya’s exports and improve economic resilience.
“We are propelling our export growth by increasing product range and market destinations. The data we have seen is a testament to our collective efforts,” she said.
The UK remains one of Kenya’s largest foreign investors. Around 150 British companies operate in the country, directly employing more than 250,000 Kenyans, according to the British High Commission.
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