Trade and Investments Cabinet Secretary, Rebecca Miano, has revealed that Kenya and the United States are gearing up for the sixth round of negotiations under the Kenya-United States Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP) in Mombasa.
Following the successful completion of the fifth round, Miano reaffirmed the commitment to finalizing the negotiations by the year’s end, aligning with mutual objectives and values. She stated, “We have made substantial strides in several key areas. These include anticorruption measures, support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), domestic regulation of services, and the initial draft of the agriculture text.”
The provisions outlined in the negotiations aim to bolster agricultural trade, combat corruption, empower MSMEs, and ensure fair treatment of service suppliers for economic growth and stability. Moreover, they are geared towards promoting workers’ rights, environmental protection, transparency in regulatory processes, efficient customs procedures, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Led by Trade PS Alfred K’Ombudo and Assistant United States Trade Representative Constance Hamilton, the weeklong discussions in Mombasa will focus on high-standard commitments to increase investment, foster sustainable economic growth, benefit workers, and enhance African regional economic integration. Talks will cover crucial aspects such as Workers’ Rights, Customs Procedures, Good Regulatory Practices, and Agriculture, emphasizing the shared dedication to fortifying bilateral trade relations.