EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement closer to approval
EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement closer to approval
European Commission | 28th September 2023
By European Commission
The EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) has today taken a step towards approval, with the Commission sending to the Council proposals for its signature and conclusion.
The EU-Kenya EPA will boost trade in goods and create new economic opportunities, with targeted cooperation to enhance Kenya’s development. It is the most ambitious EU agreement with an African country thus far as regards climate protection and labour rights.
The agreement foresees immediate full liberalisation of the EU market for Kenyan products, and will incentivise EU investment in Kenya, thanks to increased legal certainty and stability. The EPA contains strong trade and sustainability commitments, including binding provisions on labour matters, gender equality, environment, and the fight against climate change, and a dedicated chapter on economic and development cooperation to enhance the competitiveness of the Kenyan economy.
The deal will be supported by the implementation of the Global Gateway Africa-Europe Investment Package announced at the 6th EU-African Union Summit in February 2022. It will facilitate trade and investment, accompanied by trade-related development cooperation, with a view to further deepening the economic ties between the EU and Kenya, boosting sustainable economic growth, and creating jobs.
The EPA will also directly contribute to the objectives of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and to the African Union Agenda 2063. It will also support the green and digital transitions of both partners.
Once the Council gives its agreement, the EU will be able to sign the EPA with Kenya, that would then be sent to the European Parliament for consent. Following approval, the deal can enter into force.
