US steps up pressure on Kenya to level playing field on maize imports
The US has called on Kenya to ease trade restrictions on maize imports, citing a 50% tariff and strict regulations that hinder US corn exports. The US Trade Representative highlighted these as unfair practices, noting Kenya’s maize market, valued at Sh6.47 billion, could grow 30% by 2027. Currently, only EAC maize enters duty-free, while US exports face steep barriers.
The US government has increased pressure on Kenya to level the playing field for its maize exports, citing trade practices such as steep taxes and cumbersome regulations.
The US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Monday cited Kenya’s maize import market conditions among a list of unfair trade practices faced by American exporters globally.
In his post on the social media platform ‘X’, he said that, Kenya imposes a 50% tariff on imports of US corn, and imposes burdensome regulatory requirements, effectively blocking US exports of corn. Kenya’s market for feed corn is currently estimated at Sh6.47 billion, with a potential to grow by 30% by 2027.
Adding that, securing market access for American farmers will ensure they can compete on a level playing field.
Kenya maintains a steep ad-valorem import duty of 50% for maize from outside the East African Community(EAC), in line with the bloc’s Common External Tariff, while maize imported from EAC countries has duty-free access.
The CET tariff on maize imports is however temporarily waived in instances where the government seeks to stabilize domestic prices of the commodity.
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Source : NTv
