Dr. Erick Rutto, President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), met with H.E. Barlybay Sadykov, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Kenya, to discuss avenues for expanding bilateral trade between the two countries.

Ambassador Sadykov underscored Kenya’s global leadership in tea production, highlighting the premium quality of Kenyan tea, and identified Kazakhstan as a strategic market for both Kenyan tea and coffee exports.

During the meeting, the Ambassador proposed the establishment of a Kenyan tea and coffee hub in Kazakhstan, noting key incentives, including the exemption of green coffee beans from import taxes.

He also highlighted the high-value nature of the Kazakhstan market, where a single cup of coffee retails at USD 5, signaling significant market potential.

Discussions further explored collaboration opportunities in the tourism sector.

In response, KNCCI committed to organizing a business roundtable to connect Kenyan exporters and investors with opportunities in Kazakhstan.

The roundtable will present market insights, outline available incentives and tax exemptions, and identify businesses with interest in establishing a tea and coffee hub.

Additionally, KNCCI will participate in a high-level trade mission to Kazakhstan in May 2026, focusing on the tea, coffee, and sectors.

The next steps include confirming the roundtable date, coordinating with the Kazakhstan Embassy on trade mission logistics, and developing sector-specific briefing materials for participating businesses.