Kenyan farmers have received a major boost after Sudan lifted its ban on tea imports, paving the way for the resumption of exports to one of the country’s most important foreign markets.
Sudan’s Trade Minister Mahasin Ali Yaqoub on Wednesday, November 11, ordered the immediate lifting of restrictions previously imposed on Kenyan tea and directed all relevant authorities to implement the decision.
The development comes as Kenya continues to rely on international markets to sustain its tea industry, which remains a major contributor to foreign exchange earnings.
In the March 2025 notice, Sudan announced the immediate restriction of all imports from Kenya, barring tea imports from entering through ports, railways, and air transport.
The RSF, alongside other rebel groups, signed a political charter on February 22, 2025, in Nairobi, to form a parallel administration to that of the Sudanese government.
Two days after the signing of the charter, Sudan’s Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Hussein Al Fadil issued a statement warning about a potential ban on Kenya’s imports.
“This is due to the interference in Sudan’s internal affairs and the hosting of events for the terrorist RSF militia and its allies, which target Sudan’s security, stability, and unity,” said Fadil.
The lifting of the ban is therefore expected to create renewed opportunities for Kenyan tea exporters to access the Sudanese market and restore trade flows that had been disrupted by the restrictions-Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
