Kenya is stepping up efforts to expand its trade and investment footprint in the United States following a high-level business roundtable that brought together Kenyan exporters and key U.S. buyers, distributors, financiers and logistics providers in Miami.

The engagement was held on the sidelines of the Americas Food & Beverage Show and focused on turning business connections into concrete commercial opportunities for Kenyan producers and exporters.

The Kenyan delegation was led by Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA) Board Director Dr. Grace Muriithi and Chief Executive Officer Floice Mukabana. Representatives from the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), Coffee Board of Kenya, Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and participating Kenyan exporters also took part in the discussions.

A key focus of the meeting was expanding market access and strengthening distribution networks for Kenyan products in the U.S. market.

The delegation also explored the possibility of establishing a U.S. customs-bonded warehouse, with coffee and tea identified as potential pilot products. Such an arrangement could support more efficient handling and distribution of Kenyan exports while improving access to American buyers.

Discussions further examined opportunities to strengthen export financing, particularly for businesses seeking to scale their operations and take advantage of growing international markets.

The Kenyan side also pushed for improved market access for agricultural products, alongside increased value addition and stronger origin branding to enhance the competitiveness and visibility of Kenyan products in the United States.

Digital commerce was another area highlighted during the engagement, with stakeholders exploring ways technology can help Kenyan exporters connect directly with international consumers and expand their market reach.

The roundtable also provided an opportunity for Kenyan businesses to build partnerships with U.S.-based buyers, distributors and logistics companies, creating potential new channels for trade and investment.

The engagements form part of Kenya's broader efforts to strengthen export performance, diversify international markets and create more opportunities for local producers and businesses to participate in global trade.

The government, through the State Department for Trade and the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, continues to promote initiatives aimed at positioning Kenyan products in strategic international markets.

The Miami engagement is expected to provide a platform for Kenyan exporters to deepen existing commercial relationships while establishing new partnerships capable of translating international exposure into actual trade opportunities.