The Republic of Kenya and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia held a bilateral meeting from 15th to 17th April 2025 to discuss the implementation of a Simplified Trade Regime (STR) aimed at accelerating trade between border communities of the two countries.

The meeting was co-chaired by Hon. Lee Kinyanjui, Cabinet Secretary for Investment, Trade and Industry of the Republic of Kenya, and H.E. Dr. Kassahun Gofe, Minister of Trade and Regional Integration of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

Key areas of focus included:

• Development of common lists of tradable products
• Designation of border trade zones
• Trade value thresholds
• Frequency of cross-border travel for traders

The Ministers agreed that the designated border zone for Ethiopia will extend 50 km from the common border, while for Kenya it will extend 100 km. The value threshold for goods was set at USD 1,000, with a trading frequency of up to four times per month. A common list of products eligible under the STR was also agreed upon.

Additionally, both parties committed to collaborating on the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The Ministers agreed to develop and sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to fast-track the implementation of the AfCFTA between the Republic of Kenya and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.