Pakistan and Kenya Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation and Trade

Strategic Insights -

Pakistan and Kenya are strengthening their bilateral ties in the agriculture and trade sectors, with Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain reaffirming his country's commitment to expanding cooperation with Kenya. A meeting between Hussain and Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Peter Mbogo Njiru, High Commissioner of Kenya to Pakistan, was held to explore opportunities for strengthening ties, particularly in agriculture and trade. Both sides acknowledged significant potential to further diversify and expand trade, especially in agri-based products. The Kenyan High Commissioner expressed interest in institutional collaboration and confirmed his upcoming visit to the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) to explore joint research and agricultural innovation opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pakistan primarily exports rice, cotton, and seeds to Kenya, while importing tea and other goods valued at around USD 350 million.
  • The current bilateral trade between Pakistan and Kenya stands at approximately USD 1 billion.
  • A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on agricultural and trade cooperation is expected to be discussed and potentially finalized during the Pakistan-Kenya Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting scheduled in Islamabad from September 11 to 18, 2025.
  • Pakistan is open to diversifying its import basket from Kenya, particularly in products such as avocados, mangoes, flowers, and tea.
  • The Kenyan High Commissioner acknowledged the contributions of 2,000 to 3,000 Pakistanis living in Kenya, active in sectors including hospitality, banking, automobile trade, and development work through organizations like the Aga Khan Foundation.
  • Pakistan and Kenya have collaborative relationships with Pakistani institutions such as the National Agriculture Foundation and the National Textile University, Faisalabad.
  • The High Commissioner expressed appreciation for Pakistan's long-standing support, especially in defense training, with many Kenyan Army and Navy officers having received instruction at institutions in Pakistan.

Statistics:

  • Current bilateral trade between Pakistan and Kenya: approximately USD 1 billion.
  • Value of Kenyan imports from Pakistan: around USD 350 million.
  • Number of Pakistanis living in Kenya: 2,000 to 3,000.

Sources:

  • Press release from Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain.
  • Statement from the High Commissioner of Kenya to Pakistan, Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Peter Mbogo Njiru.