Kenya’s envoy nominee to Turkey Anthony Muchiri pledge to bridge trade imbalance
Kenyan Ambassador Nominee to Ankara, Turkey, Anthony Muchiri, has promised to help close the import and export gap between Turkey and Kenya.
Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, Muchiri noted that while Kenya imports more from Turkey, the exports have been way lower, adding that if approved to serve as the envoy for Turkey, the exports will improve.
According to Muchiri, the high tariffs imposed on Kenyan tea, plus the VAT, have made it impossible for Kenya to penetrate the Turkey market, which he maintains that the imbalance needs to be fixed.
“Kenya exports goods worth about USD 23 million to Turkey, but imports close to USD 300 million. This imbalance needs to be fixed. Turkey imposes high tariffs plus VAT on tea, making it difficult for Kenya to penetrate that market. I will advocate for reciprocity and diversification of exports, including horticulture and other products,” he stated.
On suitability and preparedness for the position, he added that he is ready for the work and that the government needs to provide the critical resources required.
“I am well-prepared. I have led missions before and understand the importance of working with embassy staff as a team. My immediate focus will be to strengthen trade and bilateral cooperation. However, resources are critical. For example, Istanbul is the commercial hub, yet the Embassy is in Ankara. Without adequate facilitation, it is difficult to pursue Kenya’s trade agenda effectively,” he stated.
“Turkey is an emerging global power and an important partner. Our relations are strong, but I will navigate any issues with caution, always guided by Kenya’s national interest,” he added.
Ambassador Anthony Muchiri is the Chairperson of, Public Service Commission.
He was appointed in December 2021.
He previously served as the former Ambassador to Havana, Cuba, from June 2018 to December 2021 and as a Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
