Kenya’s international trade dynamics reflect its ongoing economic transformation, with imports continuing to play a vital role in meeting local industrial and consumer needs, while exports offer critical foreign exchange and regional trade leverage.
According to the latest Economic Survey by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), total imports rose by 3.6% to KSh 2.71 trillion in the 2024–2025 fiscal year. This increase comes amid a broader government expenditure uptick, which reached KSh 3.6 trillion, driven by development and infrastructure goals.
Despite the surge in imports, Kenya also recorded a 10.4% rise in exports, reaching KSh 1.11 trillion, suggesting efforts to balance trade are bearing fruit. However, GDP growth slightly declined to 4.7% from 5.7% the previous year.
Here’s a breakdown of the top goods Kenya imported and exported during the last fiscal year:
Top 5 Products Kenya Imported (2024)
- Petroleum Products – KSh 552.4 billion
Crucial for transportation, electricity generation, and manufacturing, petroleum remains Kenya’s largest import due to limited domestic refining capacity. - Industrial Machinery – KSh 312.9 billion
Supporting local manufacturing, energy projects, and construction, industrial machinery is key to Kenya’s industrialization agenda. - Animal and Vegetable Fats & Oils – KSh 139.2 billion
Widely used in food processing and domestic cooking, these imports fill local production gaps. - Plastic Articles – KSh 113.4 billion
Used in packaging, construction, and household items, plastics remain vital for many sectors despite sustainability concerns. - Iron and Steel – KSh 101.8 billion
A pillar for construction and infrastructure development, imported steel is essential for the country’s housing and roads agenda.
Top 5 Products Kenya Exported (2024)
- Tea – KSh 180.6 billion
Kenya remains one of the world’s leading tea exporters, with strong markets in Pakistan, Egypt, and the UK. - Horticultural Products (Flowers, Fruits, and Vegetables) – KSh 146.3 billion
A key employer in rural areas, Kenya’s floriculture and fresh produce industries thrive on European demand. - Coffee – KSh 83.5 billion
Despite fluctuations in global prices, Kenyan coffee is valued for its quality and is exported primarily to Europe and the U.S. - Apparel and Textiles – KSh 47.2 billion
Driven by the U.S.-based AGOA trade agreement, Kenya’s garment industry continues to expand its export base. - Cement and Clinker – KSh 35.9 billion
With regional infrastructure projects underway, Kenya’s cement exports to neighboring East African countries remain strong.
Trade Outlook
Kenya’s trade balance remains tilted toward imports, but growing export volumes and a diversified product base signal positive momentum. Analysts highlight the need for increased value addition, investment in local manufacturing, and stronger infrastructure connectivity to boost regional competitiveness.
As the country continues to focus on industrial growth, policymakers are emphasizing the importance of export-led strategies to reduce reliance on imports and create sustainable economic resilience.