The President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Dr. Erick Rutto, today received H.E. Abderazaak Laassel, the Ambassador of Morocco to Kenya, who paid a courtesy call at the KNCCI headquarters.

Discussions focused on strategies to boost trade between Kenya and Morocco, which currently stands at approximately USD 40 million, and on tapping opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Key issues raised included the establishment of a direct shipping line between Rabat and Mombasa, as well as the introduction of direct flights to ease connectivity. Dr. Rutto noted that the absence of such direct links has hindered trade, with Moroccan buyers often sourcing Kenyan flowers through Europe, while tea is imported from China and coffee from Colombia, despite Kenya being a prime producer.

The two leaders also explored opportunities for Morocco to supply fertilizers to Kenya, a critical input for the agricultural sector. To further enhance collaboration, both sides agreed that KNCCI and the Rabat Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the upcoming visit of the Rabat Chamber President to Kenya later this year.

In addition, it was highlighted that Kenya and Morocco are finalizing agreements on double taxation avoidance and a MoU on investment promotion, which will provide a stronger framework for bilateral economic cooperation.