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Kenya’s export potential lies in agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and tech sectors. With strong growth forecasts and government support, the country can boost foreign exchange through value addition, sustainable practices, and improved infrastructure and investment climate.
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Agriculture, tourism and manufacturing are some of the major industries that contribute considerably to Kenya's diverse economy and its foreign exchange earnings. This report lists sectors that offer prospects for foreign exchange and offers suggestions.
Kenya's economy ranked 67th globally in 2023 and 109th in total exports, primarily to Uganda, the US, UAE, Netherlands and Pakistan. Exports averaged 38730.69 KES million monthly from 1998-2024, showcasing Kenya's competitiveness in international markets.
The following are some significant industries that generate a sizable portion of foreign exchange earnings:
Agriculture:
• Major exporter of tea, coffee and horticulture.
• Tea exports expected to reach $3640.61 million by 2029 as per Statica.
• Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency aims for value addition.
• Government's emphasis on industrialization expected to strengthen manufacturing sector.
Tourism:
• Tourism sector generated Ksh 133 billion in gross capital creation in 2019, which was 8.2% of the total amount in the country. (KTSA)
• Growth expected to reach $5 billion in 2025.(Who owns Africa)
• Marketing, infrastructural investment and diversification are key.
• Potential growth in niche markets, ecotourism and cultural tourism.
Manufacturing & Allied:
• Textile industry expected to produce over $1 billion exports by 2027, supported by African Growth and Opportunity Act.
• Bamburi Cement, Eastern Africa's largest cement producer, contributes significantly.
• Government's emphasis on industrialization and value addition expected to strengthen manufacturing sector.
Technology & Financial Services:
• Kenya's Tech Industry is Attracting Foreign Investment.
• Profits from software exports, especially in fintech and mobile money sectors.
• Desirable location for foreign investment due to potential in AI, blockchain, e-commerce and emerging technology.
Kenya's Financial Sector: Attracts international investment through cross-border transactions.
COMPOSITION OF EXPORTS BY SECTOR, 2023
The export composition by sector in 2023 is displayed in the chart below; the numbers include the percentage composition and the value in USD billions. The agricultural and agro-processing industries, which include important commodities like tea and horticulture, account for the majority of Kenya's exports.
Data Source: Unlocking Kenya’s Potential
Opportunity: To draw in eco-aware international investors, Kenya is emphasizing sustainable initiatives, such as carbon markets and green fiscal incentives. Kenya's objective to attain 100% renewable energy and incentives for geothermal investments could draw in foreign investment, as more than 90% of its electricity already comes from renewable sources.
Kenya's Virtual Asset Service Providers Act, 2025 establishes a dual-licensing regime requiring crypto-based betting platforms to comply with both virtual asset and gambling laws. This framework enhances regulation, consumer protection, and AML oversight but raises significant compliance costs and operational challenges for market participants.
Kenya’s 2025 real estate market is shaped by rapid urbanization, infrastructure growth and a 2M-unit housing deficit. Key trends include green homes, smart buildings, e-commerce-driven logistics, satellite town growth and mixed-use projects. Opportunities lie in affordable housing, land and hospitality, though risks include oversupply, financing hurdles and economic volatility.
Kenya launched the FY 2026/27 and Medium-Term Budget process on Aug 25, 2025, at KICC. It aligns fiscal planning with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda and MTP IV, ensuring transparency, public participation and efficient resource allocation for growth, jobs and inclusive development amid global uncertainties.
