AGOA extension to 2028 offers tariff relief for Kenyan avocados, macadamias
Despite tariff relief, Kenyan fresh produce has historically struggled to enter the US market because of stringent non-tariff barriers.
KENYA – Kenya’s State Department for Trade has welcomed a proposed extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act to December 31, 2028, saying the move will provide tariff relief for Kenyan avocados and macadamias while sustaining duty-free access to the United States market.
The U.S. Senate has approved the extension, which now awaits consideration by the House of Representatives.
According to the State Department for Trade, AGOA lapsed on September 30, 2025, and President Donald Trump signed a one-year extension in February 2026, keeping it active until December 31, 2026.
Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam says the proposed extension will particularly support agricultural exports by maintaining tariff-free access to macadamia nuts. Ombam also highlights avocados and nuts as products with strong export potential, stressing the need to expand market access, promote value addition, and create more opportunities for farmers and businesses.
The reinstatement of AGOA access has already demonstrated its value. In the first four months of 2026, export earnings to the United States rose 32.3% to Sh32.56 billion (approx. US$251.53 million), making America the fastest-growing major destination and accounting for nearly a quarter of Kenya’s overall export increase.
The export rebound followed the reinstatement of AGOA in February, after months of disruption when the programme lapsed on September 30, 2025, leaving Kenyan exports exposed to higher tariffs.
Kenya exports goods, including macadamia nuts, tea, coffee, and fresh produce, to the US duty- and quota-free under AGOA.
Despite tariff relief, Kenyan fresh produce has historically struggled to enter the US market because of stringent non-tariff barriers. These include high FDA interception rates, pesticide Maximum Residue Limits, quarantine pest concerns, and rigorous phytosanitary inspections.
As a result, the Horticultural Crop Directorate requires exporters to obtain a Horticultural Export License, register with KEPHIS, and ensure compliance with FDA requirements for US-bound shipments. GlobalGAP and HACCP certification are strongly recommended for accessing major US retailers.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has stated that the Trump administration intends to update AGOA to align with its America First trade policy: “AGOA for the 21st century must demand more from our trading partners and yield more market access for U.S. businesses, farmers, and ranchers.“
Ultimately, the extension gives Kenya a window to strengthen its agricultural export capacity while negotiating to address persistent non-tariff barriers that limit fresh produce market access.
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