Stable with slight increase due to demand in textile manufacturing
Special Rates
Preferential Rate under COMESA/FTA
0%
Applicable if imported under the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Free Trade Area agreement or other bilateral trade agreements with the United States, subject to Rules of Origin compliance.
A recent bilateral trade agreement between the US and Kenya has reduced tariffs on synthetic staple fibers (HS Code: 5503), facilitating increased exports from the US to Kenya. The agreement aims to strengthen textile supply chains in East Africa.
2023-10-15
Impact: This is expected to increase US exports of synthetic staple fibers to Kenya by 15% over the next year, benefiting US manufacturers and Kenyan textile industries.
Kenya Imposes Quality Standards on Imported Synthetic Fibers
Kenya's Bureau of Standards introduced new quality requirements for imported synthetic staple fibers, affecting US exporters. The standards aim to ensure safety and compatibility with local production processes.
2023-09-20
Impact: US exporters may face additional compliance costs and delays, potentially reducing short-term trade volume until certification processes are streamlined.
US Synthetic Fiber Producers Eye Kenyan Market Growth
US synthetic fiber producers are targeting Kenya as a growing market due to increasing demand for raw materials in the Kenyan apparel sector, supported by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
2023-08-05
Impact: Trade under AGOA is likely to drive a steady rise in US synthetic staple fiber exports to Kenya, fostering stronger economic ties.
Policy Updates
US-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership
The US and Kenya launched a Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership, which includes provisions to ease trade barriers for synthetic staple fibers (HS Code: 5503) and other textile materials. This policy aims to enhance market access and promote sustainable industrial growth.
Date: 2023-07-14
Kenya Updates Import Tariffs on Textile Raw Materials
Kenya revised its import tariff structure under the East African Community Common External Tariff, slightly reducing duties on synthetic staple fibers to encourage local textile manufacturing while maintaining revenue balance.
