UN 
An agreement to boost trade and investment between the European Union (EU) and Kenya has entered into force.
The EU Commission announced that the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement, developed as part of the strategic partnership with Kenya, entered into force today.
Noting that the agreement will increase bilateral trade and investment, the statement noted that this will strengthen ties between reliable partners, increase employment and accelerate economic growth.
“The commitments include binding provisions on labor, gender, environment and climate change,” the statement said, adding that the agreement also has a sustainability dimension.
Recalling that Kenya is an economic hub in East Africa, the statement said the EU-Kenya trade relationship has significant growth potential.
It noted that with the agreement, the EU market will be fully open to Kenyan products, which will also encourage EU investment in the country.
Total trade between the EU and Kenya will amount to €3 billion by 2023.
The two sides signed an Economic Partnership Agreement at the end of last year.
The EU is seeking to play a more active role in Africa and is looking to conclude new trade agreements with countries in the region. (AA)
