Kenyan apparel manufacturers, exporters and workers have received a boost after the US Senate extended the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) by two years, securing duty-free access to the American market until December 31, 2028.
The Kenyan government said the extension provides much-needed certainty for businesses planning production and investment.
Trade CS Lee Kinyanjui noted that apparel accounts for about 70% of Kenya’s exports to the US. The extension also retains the third-country fabric provision, allowing EPZ manufacturers to source materials globally and export garments duty-free.
Exporters who paid duties during the gap period following AGOA’s expiration in September 2025 will be eligible for refunds. Apparel exports under AGOA reached Ksh60.6 billion in 2024.
