The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) is calling for adoption of better policies which will spur growth in the textile and apparel industry.
This follows the expected expiry of the African Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA) pact with the United States in September this year which has seen Kenyan products access the American market duty-free.
Under the trade pact which began in 2000, Kenya has had the opportunity to export more than 1,800 products among them textile and apparel products.
“AGOA has been instrumental in expanding Kenya’s export market, but uncertainties surrounding its future are causing jitters in the apparel sector. To remain competitive, we need robust policies that will support industrial resilience beyond AGOA,” said Jayesh Shah, KAM Local Textiles and Apparel Sector Chairperson.
According to Shah, while Kenyan textile industries still import some fabrics, there is a need for an all-inclusive policy framework that strengthens local production while allowing strategic imports where necessary.
Speaking at the Kenya Fashion and Design Week which targets to promote local leather and apparel sector, KAM Chairperson Tobias Alando said improved policies will also ensure the country cuts importation of second-hand clothes and spur growth and job creation in the sector.
“Kenya’s textile sector was once a powerhouse, providing thousands of jobs. However, the growing dominance of second-hand clothing coupled with uneven taxation has stifled local production. We must find a balanced approach that protects our industry while ensuring affordability for consumers,” said Alando.
Industrialisation Secretary Prof. Erastus Gatebe reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting cotton farmers and facilitating market access for Kenyan designers.
“The government is working closely with cotton farmers to revitalize local textile production and ensure a steady supply of raw materials. Additionally, we are facilitating market access to ensure Kenyan designers and manufacturers can reach global markets and establish Kenya as a strong fashion and textile hub,” he noted.
Official data by the US trade department indicates that in 2022 alone, Kenya was the fourth largest exporter to the US under AGOA with goods valued at Ksh 79 billion ($614 million), mostly apparel.
